AI—The good, the bad, and the scary

Link:

https://eng.vt.edu/magazine/stories/fall-2023/ai.html

By Florence Gonsalves, Jama Green, Alex Parrish, Tonia Moxley, Chelsea Seeber, and Ashley Williamson

Artificial Intelligence (AI) has significantly impacted our lives, though opinions vary on whether these changes are positive. A Forbes survey shows that many Americans still trust humans over AI for tasks like medicine, law-making, and gift selection. Faculty from the College of Engineering shared diverse perspectives on AI's influence.

Dylan Losey, Assistant Professor of Mechanical Engineering, highlights AI's potential to improve accessibility and quality of life through assistive technologies but warns against biases from incomplete data and how AI already influences decision-making.

Eugenia Rho, Assistant Professor of Computer Science, discusses the benefits of AI in enhancing human-machine communication but raises concerns about over-reliance on technology reducing critical thinking and the potential loss of genuine human connections.

Ali Shojaei, Assistant Professor of Building Construction, emphasizes AI's role in revolutionizing construction by optimizing processes and improving safety. However, he points outgrowing pains like data privacy issues and ethical considerations, particularly concerning job displacement.

Walid Saad, Professor of Electrical and Computer Engineering, foresees AI's vast applications but cautions against its environmental impact and job security concerns. He advocates viewing AI as an assistant rather than a replacement.

Ella Atkins, Fred D. Durham Chair in Engineering, stresses AI's ability to enhance human performance in tasks like medical diagnosis but warns against frivolous use and the risk of AI being used as a propaganda tool, which could mislead and polarize society.

Overall, while AI offers immense potential, careful consideration of ethical, environmental, and societal implications is crucial.