The rapid evolution of artificial intelligence has made the field change from a distant concept to a powerful force in all of our lives. To some of us, it has become an integral part of our daily lives, whereas others are becoming increasingly overwhelmed by its torrential downpour of advancements. I think it is important to discuss the intricacies of artificial intelligence and its impact on society and the growing importance of decentralisation.
As AI becomes much more integrated into our lives, it has rid of its larger, more ambiguous umbrella term to reveal many different specialised categories. One of these is Narrow AI. This is characterised by artificial intelligence in performing specific tasks. This has been in operation for a long time. The most useful example is virtual assistants such as Alexa and Siri.
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Another more specific form of AI is Superintelligence. This is a hypothetical stage of AI where systems can surpass human intellect which is what mainly fuels the futuristic and unnerving narratives. Closely related to this is Artificial General Intelligence (AGI). This lies at the heart of AI’s potential. AGI is the idea of machines achieving human-like cognitive ability across a multitude of human tasks.
Machine learning and deep learning, often used interchangeably, constitute the driving forces behind AI’s growth. Machine learning empowers systems to learn and improve from data, while deep learning involves training artificial neural networks to discern intricate patterns. These technologies underpin various applications, from predictive analytics in business to facial recognition in security.
A Catalyst for Transformation
The widespread discourse revolving around AI came long before the extreme momentum that has occurred over the last few years. The contributions of AI span several sectors and industries with advancements that are able to enhance and transform possibilities. One of the key concepts that we focused on, especially in terms of transformation, is the metaverse and AI.
The metaverse seems to be a buzzword that has slowly fallen off the map more recently. The transformative power of AI seemed to be destined to connect people and communities online in a virtual environment, however, with the rise of programs such as Google’s BARD and ChatGPT by OpenAI the focus seems to have shifted.
Decoding Decentralised AI
Whilst we all seem to be captivated by AI, its popularity has also started to endanger important questions. As technology becomes increasingly sophisticated, the cost of being able to use the software increases which creates exclusivity and centralisation.
Centralisation is a state where a select few organisations monopolise AI capabilities, and raises concerns about control, innovation, and power dynamics. Enter the concept of decentralised AI — a strategic response to these potential issues.
Centralisation vs. Decentralisation: The Balance
Centralisation is not inherently negative. It has the potential to foster efficiency and rapid progress. However, in the realm of AI, a power imbalance can tip the scales unfavourably.
A concentrated AI landscape grants undue influence to a few different entities, determining technology’s trajectory and potential misuse. A decentralised approach seeks to distribute AI capabilities widely, empowering a broader spectrum of actors to participate in its development.
The Promise of Decentralised AI
Decentralised AI envisions a landscape where AI capabilities are democratised. This concept aligns with the principles of Web3 and blockchain technology, which champion decentralised networks and open participation. By leveraging decentralised systems, AI’s potential can be harnessed collectively, safeguarding against undue concentration of power. This approach fosters innovation, inclusivity, and a diverse array of perspectives.
The evolution of AI is a journey that challenges our understanding of technology’s role in society. As terminology evolves, so does our comprehension of its implications. From narrow AI to AGI, and from machine learning to deep learning, the AI landscape is a tapestry woven with threads of innovation and potential.
However, the storm of centralisation looms, prompting us to consider the value of decentralisation in safeguarding AI’s benefits for all. The future of AI is not just about technological prowess; it’s about striking a harmonious balance between advancement and ethical responsibility. In navigating this storm, the choices we make today will shape the horizon of possibilities for generations to come.
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Tej Kohli is a philanthropist, technologist and investor.
Find out more about Tej Kohli: Tej Kohli the technologist investing in human triumph
Learn more about the Tej Kohli & Ruit Foundation: tejkohliruit.com
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