Many philanthropists are increasingly making their mark in the world of artificial intelligence (AI), channeling their resources toward promoting ethical AI practices.
According to Associated Press, the swift progress of AI has triggered heightened apprehension among technology experts, prompting a notable increase in philanthropic grants. These grants hail from diverse sources, including well-established foundations and prominent figures in the tech realm.
Philanthropists on 'Ethical AI'
The crux of this philanthropic movement centers around the notion of "ethical AI," a conceptual framework designed to confront and alleviate the potential adverse impacts of AI systems.
Within the scope of ethical AI initiatives, a broad spectrum of concerns is encompassed, ranging from predicting climate-related calamities and identifying life-saving medications to guarding against the propagation of misinformation and national security vulnerabilities.
The influence of philanthropy on the trajectory of AI is becoming more apparent. Tech giants frequently lend their support to projects and institutions that highlight the positive outcomes achievable through AI.
In contrast, according to AP's report, foundations devoid of tech affiliations have primarily focused on the conceivable hazards associated with AI.
Prominent individuals like ex-Google CEO Eric Schmidt and his spouse, Wendy Schmidt, have made significant financial pledges to initiatives revolving around artificial intelligence.
Utilizing Schmidt Futures as a conduit, they have dedicated substantial sums, reaching hundreds of millions of dollars, to programs aimed at catalyzing a global scientific revolution.
These initiatives center on the advancement of AI research and its versatile applications across various domains. Similarly, the Patrick McGovern Foundation, established by the late billionaire Patrick McGovern, has also elevated the significance of AI and data science.
Demonstrating this commitment, the foundation extended a substantial grant of $40 million to nonprofit organizations harnessing AI and data to foster a positive impact on planetary well-being, economic advancement, and community welfare.
Billionaire entrepreneur and LinkedIn co-founder Reid Hoffman shares the same belief that AI can enhance humanity. He has funded research centers at prominent universities, including Stanford University and the University of Toronto, to explore the positive impact of AI on areas like healthcare and education.
Skepticism Arises
Despite the optimism, skepticism exists within the tech elite's philanthropic efforts. Some, like Tesla CEO Elon Musk, express concerns about the potential destructive power of AI and have backed initiatives to mitigate AI-related risks.
Open Philanthropy, founded by Facebook co-founder Dustin Moskovitz and his wife, Cari Tuna, has supported organizations such as the Center for AI Safety, which warns of the potential "risk of extinction" associated with AI.
AI-focused grants also extend to universities delving into ethical considerations. The Ethics and Governance of AI Initiative, a collaboration between MIT Media Lab and Harvard's Berkman Klein Center, received significant funding to ensure the ethical deployment of AI technologies.
The Kavli Foundation has committed funds to centers focusing on scientific ethics, including AI ethics, at the University of California at Berkeley and the University of Cambridge.
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