HUMANITY has ushered into an age where intelligent technologies such as Artificial Intelligence (AI) will play a key role in how humans interact with one another. AI has already made significant breakthroughs and despite its tremendous benefits, it will change the concept of security. So far, humans have been the main protagonists (and antagonists) of the story; but with the rapid investment and developments in making AI more efficient, there might come a time when AI would challenge humanity’s existence, or even replace it entirely. According to a report published by the World Economic Forum earlier this year, nearly 83 million jobs in the workforce will be wiped out in the next five years. This would widen human inequality, making SDG-10 difficult to attain.
Another concern that arises due to AI is that global powers such as the US and China are developing AI for military use. The military modernization of AI would bring lethal autonomous weapons systems (LAWS) and semi-autonomous weapons systems (SAWS) on the battlefield. This will change how wars are fought, especially on the front line of battles where fighting is more rigid and dangerous. The laws of war would also need to be revised in accordance with the use of AI weapons to safeguard and protect non-combatants and civilians in/near war zones. Moreover, the military modernization of AI by great powers would enhance the security dilemma and might trigger an arms race where even middle and even smaller powers would want to develop AI weapons for their use, hence making the world a dangerous place to live in.
However, AI is here to stay, and it will significantly change humanity’s interactions with one another. Permanently banning AI would not be recommended as AI can be used to make significant breakthroughs and help humanity reach new heights. The best course of action regarding the use of AI is to regulate it and bind it to a framework where its misuse can be controlled. So far, there is no law enacted by any country that can bind AI and regulating it would be a difficult task but not altogether impossible.
To bind AI, a consensus and unity among humanity is required. The last time humanity reached a consensus a new international system was formed and so far, that system has helped us avoid another world war or global catastrophe. A similar approach is also required for AI, especially regarding the developments in Artificial General Intelligence or any other investments that can make AI sentient. Humanity still has time to unite and decide how to use AI to safeguard and protect their future. However, time is of the essence, and it should act now before it is too late.
—The writer is scholar of International Relations, based in Karachi.
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