Artificial Intelligence – AI

Yesterday’s news was dominated by the world AI summit conference, attended by politicians and scientists from around the world. US Vice-President Kamala Harris made a speech. Rishi Sunak was filmed in discussion with Elon Musk…

The conference was held at Bletchley Park, the principal centre of Allied code-breaking during the Second World War.

Alan Turing who’s credited with much of the code-breaking work, through the developing early computers, said, ‘This is only a foretaste of what is to come and only the shadow of what is going to be.’  Some prediction!

I’m quickly out of my depth with technical discussions. AI has raised more questions than answers for me. For example:

1. We’re promised that AI has many benefits; in times of war and conflict how do we prevent AI from promoting death and destruction?
2. AI has the potential to replace many jobs. How will people earn a living, occupy their time? Who will support those who aren’t working?
3. What will ‘community’ look like? Previously it was found in the work-place, the pubs and clubs, the church. Will AI fragment society even more?
4. AI promises to develop medical knowledge and cures. People will live longer. How shall we develop the care provision for the elderly?
5. Where shall we find moral values, meaning and purpose to life?

I’m reminded of the Bible story of Ai (pronounced A.I.). Joshua is leading Israel into their ‘Promised Land’. All is going well. They’ve just defeated the city of Jericho – a great victory. Their confidence is high.

Next they come to the small town of Ai; taking it should be easy. They suffer defeat; they’re humiliated, men are killed. Their defeat came because a man called Achan has taken some plunder – gold, silver and clothing – from Jericho, when their God’s instruction was that they shouldn’t…

Musing… perhaps lessons about self-confidence, personal selfishness, considering how our actions affect others, ignoring our God, are lessons from we should consider from AI and Ai…