Understanding artificial intelligence

Artificial intelligence (AI) systems already permeate daily life: they drive cars, decide on mortgage applications, translate texts, create artworks, play games, and intervene in conflict zones. The briefing explores the roots of the AI revolution that emerged from the combination of machine learning techniques and 'big data'. It also explores the current limitations of these systems: they are perform single tasks, can be biased and are opaque in their decision making. The development of AI systems requires adaptation of legal frameworks on the collection, use and storage of data. But more importantly, the key issue remains the level of autonomy given to AI systems to make decisions that could be life-changing. If the threat of a 'superintelligence' able to self-improve and dominate humans remains remains unrealistic, AI systems are expected to impact society, especially the job market, and could increase inequalities.

Source: © European Union - EP