AI: What Will It Do to Our World?
No matter where you live or how old you are, it's very likely that you know what artificial intelligence (AI) is. But have you ever wondered how powerful or even dangerous it could get?
AI is a technology that uses algorithms and patterns that enable machines like phones and computers to perform various tasks. These functions usually require at least a human level of intelligence. AI is like a helper or assistant to humans, making decisions and predictions, being creative, and solving problems. Though it is not entirely accurate, people still rely on it for daily tasks.
There are actually three main types of AI: Artificial Narrow Intelligence (ANI), Artificial General Intelligence (AGI), and Artificial Superhuman Intelligence (ASI). ANI, or weak AI, is an AI used for a single task. For example, Siri’s main job is to recognize your voice and search the web for answers. On the other hand, AGI is an AI that has an average human level of intelligence. For example, ChatGPT performs tasks and solves problems as if a human were doing them. Lastly, ASI is a hypothetical form of AI that exceeds current forms. This is the type of AI that could potentially destroy our world if it is ever made.
AI is improving significantly and rapidly. A few years ago, when AI became more accessible, it was everywhere. Low-quality, mass-produced, and easily detectable AI videos circulated on the internet. The informal term “AI slop” was also getting popular in the comment sections of these videos. This term refers to low to mid-quality content created with AI tools, often with little regard for accuracy or quality. Our world's modernization and hardworking AI engineers have made AI almost undetectable, tricking loads of people.
Most wonder whether AI will cause more harm or good. AI has many benefits. It improves efficiency in decision-making, reduces human error, as in self-driving cars, and can perform tasks that are usually too hard, dangerous, or tiring for humans. It is generally more efficient than most people.
However, AI still has its downsides. First of all, AI makes mistakes. It is created by humans who aren't perfect, so it's better not to rely on it too much. Even if AI is good at making efficient decisions, it still lacks empathy and emotion to make realistic ones. AI is also starting to take over jobs that are better left to humans. These are jobs like customer service, drivers, artists, and even jobs in the medical or educational field.
I can conclude that AI can cause both harm and good. It entirely depends on how humans make use of it. It can be used to improve our world by helping with jobs and doing things humans can't (if done safely). But AI can also be used for crime, corruption, and other activities that our world won't benefit from. If we want AI to be a good thing for everyone, we should be careful to use it for the good, allowing them to help humans and not replace them so that our world can stay safe.