Artificial intelligence: threat or chance for democracy?

Artificial intelligence: threat or chance for democracy?

Laimgrubengasse 10, 1060 Wien, Österreich - The Austrian Parliament has commissioned a short study on the possible effects of the new forms of use of artificial intelligence (AI) on democracy. This investigation, carried out by the Institute for Technology Assessment (ITA), in particular illuminates the opportunities and risks associated with the generative AI. According to the study, the technology, which is able to create high -quality content, has significant risks to the political sphere. Manipulation of information from chatbots and deep fakes could strongly influence public opinion. The researchers are calling for a profound discussion about the forms of use of the AI and the development of corresponding accompanying measures before this technology is used in politics, reported Apa-OTS .

Potentials and challenges of AI in democracy

The study emphasizes that despite the risks there are also positive possible uses. For example, innovative technologies could promote citizen participation and make political discourse more transparent. A planned "democracy platform" could act as a central point of contact in order to bundle the positive applications of generative AI and to achieve population classes that have so far been little politically active. It is emphasized that the application of these technologies must comply with the corresponding legal and ethical standards, such as data protection, in order to counteract an increasing digital divis. Other aspects such as the CO2 footprint of the AI applications and the working conditions in the AI value chain must also be seriously considered.

In addition to the harmful effects that AI can have on democracy, it is important not to lose sight of dialogue about its potential advantages. Make.org sees targeted opportunities to improve citizen participation by AI and examines how digital tools can simplify access to political participation. AI is viewed as a supportive instrument to promote political processes and not as a substitute for human expertise. The increasing fragmentation of reality by disinformation and the need for ethical standards in the development of AI technologies are emphasized as essential challenges, as well as ÖFIT reported.