Artificial intelligence (AI) is dramatically revolutionising our world, but the technology also poses risks to our societies and democracies. Experts warn that AI can have adverse effects on privacy, national security, social justice and civil liberties. If we do not take steps to minimise these risks, we could see the rise of an increasingly unequal and authoritarian world.

The first danger of AI is that algorithms can reproduce the prejudices and discriminations of our society. For example, recruitment algorithms can discriminate against applicants on the basis of their gender, race or social background. Similarly, policing algorithms can unfairly target minority groups as being more likely to commit crimes.

The second danger of AI is that algorithms can manipulate public opinion and influence elections. Social networking algorithms can create filter bubbles that reinforce pre-existing opinions and reduce the diversity of views. They can also promote false or misleading content, creating confusion in people's minds and altering their judgement, such as what we have recently seen linking on social networks to the photo of the Pope in a white down jacket or images of President Emmanuel Macron in the streets of Paris sitting on garbage bags.

It is therefore crucial that people are educated about AI and how to tell the difference between true and false content. Educators can help create a culture of fact-checking and critical thinking that will enable people to better understand the information they receive. Teachers can also help young people understand the basics of AI, the different forms of AI, their benefits and risks.

In addition, it is important to involve citizens in the development of AI. This implies forming multidisciplinary teams, composed of scientists, engineers, social scientists and humanities specialists, as well as representatives of civil society, to discuss the social and ethical implications of AI.

The petition regarding the suspension of AI development by Elon Musk and Steve Wozniak is an initiative that highlights the importance of transparency in AI development. Companies and governments need to be more transparent about how they use AI and the data they collect. They also need to give citizens more control over their own data, including the ability to delete or control it.

AI can be a positive force for human progress and well-being. But if we do not take steps to minimise the risks, it could harm our societies and democracies. By educating people about AI, involving citizens in the development of AI, and promoting transparency in the use of AI, we can maximise the benefits of this technology while minimising its risks.

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