AI Safety: The Next Frontier in Technology
Introduction
Audrey Lorvo, a senior at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT), is researching AI safety, a field that seeks to ensure increasingly intelligent AI models are reliable and benefit humanity. This growing field addresses technical challenges like robustness and AI alignment with human values, as well as societal concerns like transparency and accountability.
The Rise of AI Safety
Ensuring AI isn’t misused or acts contrary to our intentions is increasingly important as we approach artificial general intelligence (AGI), which describes the potential of artificial intelligence to match or surpass human cognitive capabilities. As a member of the MIT Schwarzman College of Computing’s Social and Ethical Responsibilities of Computing (SERC) scholar, Lorvo looks closely at how AI might automate AI research and development processes and practices.
The Potential of AI
AI’s potential to accelerate research on itself and its potential implications is vast. Lorvo is investigating the social and economic implications associated with AI’s potential to accelerate research on itself and how to effectively communicate these ideas and potential impacts to general audiences, including legislators, strategic advisors, and others.
The Importance of AI Governance
Lorvo emphasizes the need to critically assess AI’s rapid advancements and their implications, ensuring organizations have proper frameworks and strategies in place to address risks. "We need to both ensure humans reap AI’s benefits and that we don’t lose control of the technology," she says. "We need to do all we can to develop it safely."
Value from Human Engagement
When arriving at MIT, Lorvo knew she wanted to pursue a course of study that would allow her to work at the intersection of science and the humanities. The variety of offerings at the Institute made her choices difficult, however.
Student Experiences at the Institute
Lorvo invests her time outside the classroom in creating memorable experiences and fostering relationships with her classmates. "I’m fortunate that there’s space to balance my coursework, research, and club commitments with other activities, like weightlifting and off-campus initiatives," she says.
Conclusion
As AI continues to evolve, it’s crucial to prioritize AI safety and ensure that AI is developed and used in a way that benefits humanity. Lorvo’s research and advocacy for AI safety demonstrate the importance of interdisciplinary approaches to addressing the challenges and opportunities presented by AI.
FAQs
Q: What is AI safety?
A: AI safety refers to the development of AI systems that are reliable, transparent, and aligned with human values.
Q: Why is AI safety important?
A: AI safety is important to ensure that AI systems are developed and used in a way that benefits humanity and does not harm individuals or society.
Q: What can be done to ensure AI safety?
A: Ensuring AI safety requires a combination of technical, social, and ethical approaches, including developing robust AI systems, promoting transparency and accountability, and ensuring that AI systems are aligned with human values.
Q: What is the potential of AI?
A: The potential of AI is vast, with the potential to transform industries and improve lives. However, it’s crucial to ensure that AI is developed and used in a way that benefits humanity.
