Just how disruptive artificial intelligence (AI) can be has been highlighted by lawyers and directors in a new
white paper.
At the same time, the professionals from
Chapman Tripp and Institute of directors call for the establishment of a high-level working group to oversee the development and use of artificial because aside from the massive benefits AI can bring, the group of technologies also present serious dangers.
“The use of AI technologies could lead to greater productivity, enhanced social good and the creation of new fields of work. But AI also presents risks. These could include greater inequality and unemployment from disrupted industries and professions,” the organisations said.
“We have a duty to seek a deeper understanding of New Zealand’s potential as an AI-assisted economy and society, to ensure AI is a positive part of New Zealand’s future.
“Strategic and coordinated leadership is critical if we are to maximise opportunities and prepare for the profound change AI will likely have on business and society – across every sector,” the white paper noted.
Aside from disruption in jobs and the economy, the groups said that AI also presents substantial legal and regulatory challenges including problems with controlling and foreseeing the actions of autonomous systems.
Furthermore, they say that the group of technologies that make up AI are likely to generate major ethical, privacy and security concerns which need to be addressed and solved early.
New Zealand also must consider keeping control over AI, saying leaders in many fields saying how dangerous it would be to lose control over AI systems.
As such, the groups urge the government to create a high-level multidisciplinary working group that will identify opportunities and concerns covering AI.
The group which will regularly meet and report on its findings will coordinate with all who are possibly concerned and can contribute to deciding on how AI is developed and used in the country.
“AI is an extraordinary challenge for our future. Government and business leaders need to work together to promote greater development of AI technologies to ensure there is a coordinated approach to prepare for the impact AI will have on work, education and welfare. This requires big-picture thinking, long-term vision and appropriate oversight,” said Institute of Directors chief executive Simon Arcus.
“A working group with experts from science, business, law, ethics, society and government, should be tasked with considering the possible impacts, identifying areas of opportunity and concern and making recommendations on how New Zealand should prepare for AI-driven change,” Chapman Tripp Partner Bruce McClintock said.
“New Zealanders need to be prepared for the human resource implications of AI.”
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