Over 1,300 experts have signed an open letter organized by BCS, the Chartered Institute for IT, stating that AI is a “force for good” and not a threat to humanity. The letter aims to counter the “AI doom” narrative raised by some tech leaders who expressed concerns about super-intelligent AI posing existential risks.
The signatories come from various backgrounds, including business, academia, public bodies, and think tanks. They highlight the positive applications of AI, such as enabling new ways to detect serious illnesses, accelerating drug testing, and improving agricultural processes using AI-powered robots.
While acknowledging the need for rules around AI, the experts argue against the notion that AI is an existential threat. They believe that AI will boost human productivity rather than replace humans entirely. However, they emphasize the importance of having humans involved in decision-making processes to ensure accountability in case of potential catastrophic events.
The letter calls for the UK to set professional and technical standards in AI roles, supported by a robust code of conduct, international collaboration, and fully resourced regulation. The goal is for Britain to become a global leader in high-quality, ethical, and inclusive AI.
While the experts do not dismiss all concerns, they emphasize the need for regulation to avoid AI misuse and ensure proper testing, governance, and assurance in AI development.
Overall, the letter presents a more optimistic view of AI and its potential contributions to society, while acknowledging the importance of responsible development and governance.
