The AI Revolution: A Recipe for Disaster or a Beacon of Hope?
As artificial intelligence (AI) continues to infiltrate every aspect of our lives, the world is left wondering: who will control this powerful technology, and how will it shape our future? Professor Johan Steyn, a leading expert in AI, spoke to ITWeb about the challenges and opportunities that lie ahead.
The AI Arms Race: A Threat to Our Environment and Society
The rapid advancement of AI has led to an unprecedented arms race, with companies and governments vying for supremacy. But at what cost? Professor Steyn warns that the environmental impact of this technological frenzy is being ignored, with the training of a single AI model consuming 1,078KWh of electricity and producing 550 tonnes of carbon. "These organisations are aiming for net zero, but how they’re going to get it right with where we are now, I don’t know," he says.
The AI arms race is also disrupting society in profound ways. From the recent strikes in Hollywood over image and voice rights to the threat of deepfakes, AI is redefining the boundaries of art, identity, and reality. "In our country, we have nothing in the way of regulatory protections on artists and art, as far as it goes with deepfakes," Professor Steyn notes.
Regulation: A Necessary Evil or a Recipe for Disaster?
As AI continues to shape our world, the need for regulation becomes increasingly pressing. But can governments and regulatory bodies keep pace with the rapid evolution of this technology? Professor Steyn is skeptical, citing the challenges of enforcing existing legislation, such as POPIA, in South Africa. "If we can’t get that right, what are we going to do with AI in our jurisdiction and across the world?"
The Future of AI: A Choice Between Progress and Chaos
As AI continues to transform our world, we are faced with a choice: will we harness its power to create a better future, or will we succumb to the dangers of unchecked technological advancement? Professor Steyn’s words of caution serve as a reminder that the future is not set in stone, and that the choices we make today will shape the world of tomorrow.
The Battle for Control: A Global Conundrum
The regulation of AI is not a local issue, but a global one. As the world grapples with the implications of this technology, we must work together to establish a framework that balances innovation with accountability. The consequences of failure are dire, but the rewards of success are immeasurable. The choice is ours: will we create a world where AI is a force for good, or a recipe for disaster?