Artificial Intelligence and Robotics | Science & Technology for UPSC CSE PDF Download

Overview of Artificial Intelligence (AI)

Definition of AI

• Artificial intelligence (AI) is a field within computer science dedicated to creating computer systems that emulate human-like behavior.

AI Capabilities

• AI encompasses machines' abilities to perform cognitive tasks, such as thinking, perceiving, learning, problem-solving, and decision-making.
• Initially, AI aimed to replicate human intelligence.

Evolution of AI

• Advances in data collection, processing, and computing power have transformed AI's capabilities.
• AI is now employed in various fields, enhancing productivity and connectivity.

AI's Exponential Growth

Ubiquitous AI

• AI is integrated into daily life, influencing recommendations on streaming and shopping platforms, GPS technology, and more.
• AI's utilization generates vast amounts of data, fueling its continuous improvement.

Transformative Potential

• AI's transformative potential is compared to the harnessing of electricity.
• It has evolved rapidly, surpassing human champions in tasks like Jeopardy.

Promise of AI

• Automation, big data, and algorithms are reshaping various aspects of life.
• AI has the potential to address global challenges like hunger, poverty, and disease.
• It opens new pathways for climate change mitigation, education, and scientific discovery.

AI's Positive Impact

Economic Contribution

• AI could contribute over $15 trillion to the global economy by 2030, increasing global GDP by 14%.
• "AI for good" initiatives identify over 2,600 use cases worldwide.

Supporting Sustainable Development

• AI can enable 79% of Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) targets, according to a study in Nature.

Challenges of AI

Energy Consumption

• Data centers consume substantial energy, with about 40% dedicated to cooling IT equipment.
• Moving data centers to cooler climates faces challenges due to stricter data security legislations.

Environmental Impact

• Coolants in data centers often contain hazardous chemicals.
• Battery backups contribute to environmental issues, from mining to disposal.

Job Displacement

• AI and robotics are replacing low-income workers in various industries.

Algorithmic Bias

• AI algorithms rely on past digital searches to predict and shape user preferences.

Privacy Concerns

Data Privacy

• AI's constant data collection raises concerns about data privacy.
• Users are profiled without informed consent, leading to echo chambers and behavior manipulation.

AI's Double-Edged Sword

Carbon Footprint

• AI's computational demands lead to power-hungry data centers and environmental impact.
• Lack of reskilling policies may exacerbate inequalities.

Big Tech Influence

• A few tech giants hold massive influence in AI, potentially replicating existing problems.

Measures to Avoid Misuse of AI

Ethical Considerations

• Ethical concerns in AI must be addressed through a "whole of society" approach.
• Governments and tech companies share responsibility for AI governance.
• Transparency, accountability, and inclusion are vital for ethical AI.

Global Cooperation

• A "whole of world" approach is necessary for global AI governance.
• Initiatives like NITI Aayog's Responsible AI for All aim for fair and inclusive AI dividends.

Conclusion

Global Efforts

• Initiatives like the UN Secretary-General's Roadmap and UNESCO's AI ethics draft are steps toward ethical AI use.
• The application of ethical principles in real-world scenarios requires extensive multi-stakeholder reflection and resolution.

AI's Promise

• AI's true potential for humanity will be realized through ethical governance and cooperation.