Microsoft co-founder and philanthropist Bill Gates shares his thoughts In a recent blog post titled “The Age of AI Has Begun‘, He told potential impact of artificial intelligence (AI) on the world. Gates noticed the development of AI is just as fundamental as the creation of the microprocessor, the personal computer, the Internet, and the mobile phone.
Gates recounts two technology demonstrations in his life that struck him as revolutionary. He first experienced a graphical user interface in 1980, which he later described as the prototype for every modern operating system, including Windows. The second was when he set OpenAI, the creators of ChatGPT, the challenge of training an AI to pass an Advanced Placement biology exam. Within a few months, the AI not only answered 59/60 questions correctly but also wrote six longer-form answers. Gates was stunned by the AI’s performance.
Gates is especially interested in how AI can be used to reduce inequality, particularly in poorer countries. His main aspects of interest as co-chairman of the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation include lowering infant mortality and enhancing healthcare in poor regions. He sees the potential for AI to help health workers in these areas be more productive, for example by automating paperwork and completing medical forms.
However, Gates also acknowledges that there are understandable and valid fears about the downsides of AI. As the technology continues to evolve, it may present challenges that we cannot currently predict, need or agree with. In order to ensure that the advantages of AI overcome any potential drawbacks and that everyone may take use of those advantages regardless of where they live or their financial situation, it is essential that we establish rules of the road.
Gates notes that market forces will not naturally produce AI products and services that help the poorest, and in fact, the opposite is more likely. Therefore, reliable funding and the right policies are needed to ensure that AI is used to reduce inequity. Gates also poses an interesting question: if an artificial intelligence could recognize inequity, would it suggest solutions to reduce it? Does an AI need to have a sense of morality to see inequity, or would a purely rational AI be able to recognize it as well?
It is clear, AI is a revolutionary technology that can potential to change the world in ways that we cannot yet fully capable. When a new technology came, there may be some risks and challenges that must be addressed, but if we establish the right rules and use of AI to reduce inequality, we can help people everywhere improve their lives.
