Introduction for the special issue of “Ideologies of AI and the consolidation of power”: Naming power
Apr 23, 2024 - firstmonday.org
The article is an introductory essay for the special issue of First Monday, titled "Ideologies of AI and the consolidation of power". It discusses how power, wealth, and ideology of a small group of industrialists can influence what is published in mainstream computer science publications, particularly in the field of AI and machine learning. The authors argue that this control over discourse is a form of power that is often unacknowledged within the field.
The authors further contend that it is crucial to recognize and address this power dynamic and the controversial history of the pursuit of general artificial intelligence. They believe that this is necessary for maintaining the integrity of the field and for the welfare of the people whose lives are affected by AI.
Key takeaways:
The power in AI and machine learning research and publication is largely controlled by a small group of industrialists.
The discourse about the AI industry is shaped by this power, which is not acknowledged within mainstream computer science publications.
The authors argue that acknowledging and grappling with this power, as well as the troubled history of the pursuit of general artificial intelligence, is necessary for the integrity of the field.
The well-being of people impacted by AI depends on this acknowledgement and grappling with power.
