Why do people fear artificial intelligence?
Popular depiction of the future in film and writing describes societies infuriated by robots with capabilities to think independently, act like humans, and perform human tasks. This may not be the most realistic version of the future, but it does make for a good sci-fi world. This world is what comes to many of our minds initially when we think about a future with intelligent machines, but I think deep down we know the future of our society won't parallel that of a cinematic universe. However, we still fear artificial intelligence, but for different reasons. I think that artificial intelligence is often feared because of its potential to change the landscape of our current workforce. Industrialization and advancements in technology are not a new thing - we have seen trends of new innovation leading to more efficient processes and diminishing the role and responsibility of the American worker.
One of the main fears in artificial intelligence is that it will not only do this to industrial occupations, but will also begin to transform the jobs that require human judgement, input, and reasoning. Stemming from that fear is the fear that AI will make the wrong decision in many circumstances. We feel much more comfortable with a person making a decision for us than a computer, as computers are unable to feel emotion or understand the nuances of many circumstances. An optimistic view of the future with AI, is one where we use AI as a tool, to help us make tough decisions, or automate things that have been seen as an inconvenience in the past. To be able to embrace AI into our daily lives will make us a more efficient, smart society, without compromising the human workforce. This however requires, education on what AI is, how to use it to our benefit rather than detriment, and openness to change the way that we interact with technology on a daily basis.
