Documents Technology in Society 3 results

"Automated decision making and predictive analytics through artificial intelligence, in combination with rapid progress in technologies such as sensor technology and robotics are likely to change the way individuals, communities, governments and private actors perceive and respond to climate and ecological change. Methods based on various forms of artificial intelligence are already today being applied in a number of research fields related to climate change and environmental monitoring. Investments into applications of these technologies in agriculture, forestry and the extraction of marine resources also seem to be increasing rapidly. Despite a growing interest in, and deployment of AI-technologies in domains critical for sustainability, few have explored possible systemic risks in depth. This article offers a global overview of the progress of such technologies in sectors with high impact potential for sustainability like farming, forestry and the extraction of marine resources. We also identify possible systemic risks in these domains including a) algorithmic bias and allocative harms; b) unequal access and benefits; c) cascading failures and external disruptions, and d) trade-offs between efficiency and resilience. We explore these emerging risks, identify critical questions, and discuss the limitations of current governance mechanisms in addressing AI sustainability risks in these sectors."

"The ability to manipulate matter at the nano-scale promises to unleash enormous potential for diverse applications and innovations ranging from new materials for textiles, packaging, and food, to sophisticated medical procedures and treatments. The possibilities of nanomaterials also bring important economic potential. Both public and private funding have increased exponentially, as well as the number of patents, and market quotas. Nanotechnology also carries with it major concerns, such as safety and whether or not it will be accepted by society. This paper analyzes the main economic indicators of nanotechnology, and assesses relevant safety concerns and proposals for accountability and management of nanomaterials today."

"This paper addresses arguments that suggest life would be better if machines took the place of humans in work. These arguments are highly topical and remain central to modern debates on automation. Yet, as argued in this paper, they have a long history. They draw strength from different ideas including about the value of work and free time. These ideas also fit with broader agendas that address futures beyond capitalism. The paper uses a review of the history of ideas on possible automated futures to develop critical insights into the scope for using technology to work less and better in the future. A key conclusion – again developing ideas from the past – is that automation should promote opportunities for well-being in work as well as beyond it. This conclusion helps to support a politics of automation aimed at securing greater democracy in the development and use of technology in society."