Abstract
Response to Peter Yu, The Algorithmic Divide and Equality in the Age of Artificial Intelligence
Artificial Intelligence (AI) is expected to dramatically change humanity. From the automation of daily tasks and labor, to curing diseases and handling disasters, many forecast that human beings will soon begin enjoying the benefits of AI technology within many aspects of their lives. While it is currently difficult to evaluate when and to what extent AI will live up to fulfill its promise, it is uncertain whether the continued development of AI technology will widen the already existing digital divide between those with access to technology and those without.
The concern of a new digital divide that could stem from AI technology had been articulated by Professor Peter K. Yu as the algorithmic divide. In his article, The Algorithmic Divide and Equality in the Age of Artificial Intelligence, Professor Yu describes the potential inequalities that these technological developments will likely create and intensify. Much like the digital divide, Professor Yu argues, there will be a “new inequitable gap” between those with access to new technologies and those without, while the latter will miss out “on the many political, social, economic, cultural, educational, and career opportunities provided by machine learning and artificial intelligence.” This Response adds to the discussion of the perceived forthcoming algorithm divide by further analyzing key issues that emerge within the goal of inclusion.
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