Vilas Dhar, president of the Patrick J. McGovern Foundation, recently reflected on the pivotal role of human governance in shaping the future of artificial intelligence (AI). In a Boston Globe article, Dhar shared insights from a visit to a high school in central Illinois, where students expressed both concern and hope about an AI-powered future.

The discussion highlighted a crucial point: AI’s impact is not predetermined by technology alone but is deeply influenced by human choices and governance. As Dhar emphasized, “It depends on us.“

Governance and Regulation of AI

AI is rapidly reshaping various sectors, from healthcare to education. However, the systems often operate without public oversight, replicating biases and making critical decisions that affect people’s lives. The article argues for a realignment between technology and public accountability, stressing that governance will determine AI’s societal impact.

The Role of Education in AI Literacy

Education is key to understanding AI’s influence. Programs like Finland’s Elements of AI and the AI Education Project in the United States are leading the way in integrating AI literacy into curricula. These initiatives aim to equip individuals with the skills to critically assess AI systems.

Transparency and Public Accountability

To ensure AI systems are accountable, policymakers must mandate transparency. Dhar calls for public documentation of high-impact AI systems, enabling researchers and journalists to scrutinize their operations and hold them accountable.

Inclusion and Community Involvement

Inclusion is essential in AI development. Organizations like the Algorithmic Justice League model community-driven innovation. The article suggests that corporate boards should oversee AI deployment with the same rigor as financial audits, and investors should demand disclosure of social outcomes.

Dhar’s reflections remind us that while AI’s advancement is inevitable, its trajectory is not. It is up to us to ensure that AI advances justly, benefiting society as a whole. The students in Illinois intuitively understood this, and their insights serve as a call to action for all of us.