Power Politics and the Planetary Costs of Artificial Intelligence

The hidden costs of AI

Artificial intelligence (AI) is rapidly changing the world, but its development and use come at a significant cost. In her book Atlas of AI Power Politics and The Planetary Costs of Artificial Intelligence, Australian academic Kate Crawford reveals how the global networks underpinning AI technology are damaging.

Environmental costs

The training and operation of AI models require vast amounts of energy, contributing to climate change. The production of AI hardware also involves the extraction and processing of rare earth minerals, which can damage ecosystems.

Social costs

AI can lead to job displacement and economic inequality, as well as the erosion of privacy and civil liberties. The use of AI in surveillance and policing can lead to discrimination and abuse.

Political costs

AI technology is concentrated in the hands of a few powerful corporations, which can lead to the centralization of power and the suppression of dissent. AI can also be used to manipulate public opinion and undermine democratic processes.

Crawford's call to action

Crawford argues that we need to rethink our approach to AI development and use. She calls for greater transparency and accountability, as well as the development of ethical guidelines and regulations.

Crawford's work is a timely and important contribution to the debate on the future of AI. Her book provides a comprehensive overview of the hidden costs of AI and offers a clear call to action for policymakers, industry leaders, and citizens alike.