** World Summit on AI in Paris: reflection on artificial intelligence and its deep paradoxes **
At the dawn of the World Summit on Artificial Intelligence (AI) in Paris, spirits question not only about the benefits that this technology could bring, but also about the ethical and societal implications that result from it. If we believe Wendy Mackay, research director at Inria and professor at Paris-Saclay University, it is judicious to recall that AI, as we understand it today, is neither really “Intelligent” or “artificial”. This intellectual provocation opens a field of crucial reflections at a time when AI seems to reign supreme in our economic, political and social speeches.
### The Intelligence Paradox
Artificial intelligence may seem more than a catchy term, but it raises fundamental questions about the very nature of intelligence. Indeed, it is often measured as the ability of an organism to solve problems, to adapt to its environment and to learn from its experiences. However, most current AI systems are based on automatic learning algorithms which, although impressive in terms of results, do not have human awareness or intuition. They operate on the basis of massive data and statistics, but their understanding of emotional contexts and human shades remains limited. Consequently, AI, in its current form, does not react to its environment in the same way as a human being, but is content to regurgitate previously programmed information.
### Underlying misdeeds: a delicate balance
With the rise of AI, an ethical debate emerges. If the advantages of such technology are undeniable, especially in fields such as medicine, transport and infrastructure maintenance, associated risks also represent a palpable threat. Fear of the replacement of jobs, increased surveillance by governments and businesses, as well as algorithmic discrimination are realities that are increasingly concern about citizens and experts.
For example, a study carried out by the Stanford University has shown that facial recognition systems can be biased, with significantly higher error rates for female and color faces, which raises concerns about the social justice. Consequently, the challenge will not only be to develop advanced technologies, but also to guarantee that they are inclusive, transparent and respectful of individual rights.
### What solutions for a responsible AI?
The Paris Summit could be an opportunity to build an international consensus on the use of AI. Discussions around effective regulation and ethical standards will be decisive. The proposal for an international legislative framework, similar to that of the General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) in Europe, could be a starting point. The latter made it possible to protect the personal data of citizens while imposing responsibilities on technological companies. The establishment of such standards would offer the promise of the development of AI more respectful of human rights, while minimizing the risks inherent in its use.
### towards a man-machine symbiosis?
More than a simple technology, AI is positioned as a tool at the crossroads between humans and the machine. The key will consist in creating a framework in which AI completes and strengthens human capacities instead of replacing them. Companies and governments have crucial responsibility in this regard. For example, AI vocational training initiatives could help workers adapt to the rapid development of the skills required on the market.
### Conclusion
Thus, while Paris is preparing to welcome leaders and thinkers from around the world to this world summit on artificial intelligence, the stake does not only reside in the evaluation of immediate economic benefits or spectacular innovations. It is also and above all to think about the values that we want to see integrated into the evolution of these technologies. By celebrating the promise of AI, it is imperative not to forget that behind each algorithm, there are human lives whose aspirations, fears and rights must be heard and protected. Only a human and ethical approach can really take advantage of what AI has the unique to offer. In this context, a future that marries technological innovation and humanity should not be just a dream, but a tangible objective.