In a recent episode of WILS on July 17th, 2023, the host Mike Austin discussed the growing concern surrounding the AI arms race. Joined by political strategist Raven Harrison, they delved into the impact of artificial intelligence (AI) on the election process and the potential consequences of its unregulated use in political ads and deep fakes.
During the episode, Mike and Raven highlighted the implications of the AI arms race in politics. They discussed how AI has become deeply integrated into various aspects of our lives, including the automotive industry and political campaigns. The conversation revolved around the lack of oversight from the government and the Federal Elections Commission, particularly regarding the use of AI in political ads and the rise of deep fakes. With AI becoming a significant tool in political content creation, response time has significantly decreased, allowing for immediate criticism and eroding accountability.
Considering the potential ramifications of the AI arms race, caution is crucial. As Raven Harrison pointed out, AI has the power to transform anyone into a political content creator, blurring the lines of authenticity and creating an environment where misinformation can spread rapidly with little accountability. This shift can significantly impact voter confidence, especially among the middle-aged and elderly population, who may not be as familiar with AI technology.
It is imperative that we stay informed and engaged as citizens. The AI arms race demands our attention, as its implications could reshape the democratic process. We must advocate for responsible AI usage, transparency, and regulatory measures to ensure that our elections remain fair, accurate, and representative. Write to your representatives, educate yourself and others about the AI arms race, and support initiatives that promote ethical AI practices. Together, we can safeguard the integrity of our democratic institutions.
As the world hurtles further into the future, it is crucial to maintain a critical eye and address the challenges that emerging technologies like AI present. Only by proactively addressing these concerns can we navigate the evolving landscape and foster a society that benefits from the advancements while preserving the values we hold dear.