@DAIR #StochasticParrotsDay The current AI paradigm is fundamentally parasitic. These systems do not generate intelligence. They capture, amplify, and repurpose the intelligence of human beings. They cannot function without being fed huge amounts of data that rightfully belong to someone, but currently are not tracked or attributed in any way. They cannot function without large teams of people who manually review the models and training data. This entails being exposed to the most vile stuff on the internet with minimal compensation and psychological support. This _could_ be done ethically, but right now it _isn’t_. Companies are getting away with this largely by exploiting vulnerable populations who have no recourse, such as small-time content creators and impoverished workers.

@DAIR #StochasticParrotsDay The companies behind AI technology are working very hard and spending lots of money to shape the narrative around it. They present an aspirational view of what this tech can do, which ranges from overly optimistic to blatantly untrue and deceptive. They tell nice stories about improving people’s lives, but by and large they don’t actually interface with the folks affected by their work. To an alarming degree, they keep their methods and datasets secret, which makes it impossible to validate their claims or criticize their work in a meaningful way. They are firing what ethics teams they once had. As should be expected, they’re more interested in selling this technology than they are in making it safe, fair, or even useful. Unfortunately, the media often helps them do this, by repeating their claims uncritically.

@DAIR #StochasticParrotsDay Currently, the scope and impact of AI far outstrips our understanding and ability to regulate the technology. This is dangerous for everyone, but will have an outsized impact on marginalized communities. Researchers, lawyers, educators, and policymakers naturally lag behind the huge, well-funded companies that are promoting this tech. That means we’re still in the “Wild West” phase, but that’s starting to change. Real push back is starting to happen! The primary obstacle is still understanding. Tech experts have an opportunity to help by explaining this technology in accessible terms, so everyone can know how they’re affected and what they can do about it. We can all benefit by taking the time to learn more, but also sharing experiences and concerns. We need motivating examples. We need sustained attention. So, speak up, and amplify others’ voices!

@ngaylinn @DAIR Thank you for taking the time to put this summary together! I don't know if you saw but another participant, Mirabelle Jones, put this list of resources together during the event as well.
https://docs.google.com/document/d/1bG0yIdawiUvwh7m0AnXV5W6JHkK9xwXemuVjSU5tbhQ/edit

@timnitGebru @DAIR Thank you for sharing that! And thank you for being such a positive force in this important work.