Artificial intelligence: opportunities and implications for the future of decision making
Foreword
We are in currently in the foothills of a new technological revolution. Artificial intelligence has the
potential to be as transformative in our lifetimes as the steam-powered economy of the 19th
century.
Already it’s letting us to talk to our smartphones, recommending us music, describing photos for
the visually impaired and flagging up fire risks in cities.
In the near future we could see it deployed in everything from driverless cars, to intelligent
energy grids, to the eradication of infectious diseases.
In government too we are looking at the potential applications of this technology in the delivery
of public services.
Our Government Data Programme is increasing the number of projects and data scientists in
government, while playing a leading role in establishing the appropriate use of these powerful
new tools.
As one the world’s leading digital nations, artificial intelligence presents a huge opportunity for
the UK.
Get this right, and we can create a more prosperous economy with better and more fulfilling
jobs. We can protect our environment by using resources more efficiently. And we can make
government smarter, using the power of data to improve our public services.
As we've seen already in many areas, much routine cognitive work - the filing, sifting and sorting
- can increasingly be automated, freeing people up to focus on the more human aspects of any
job.
The Prime Minister has announced an independent review of modern employment practices, so
that the support we provide businesses and workers keeps pace with changes in the labour
market and the economy.
Artificial intelligence also poses new questions about ethics and governance, the responsible
use of data and strong cyber defences. To realise the full potential of this revolution, again we
have to be ready with answers.
I am pleased that the Royal Society and the British Academy are conducting a review that will
consider how best the UK might manage the use of artificial intelligence.
This note sets out where the science is heading, describes some of the implications for society
and government, and shows how we can responsibly use this technology to improve the lives
and living standards of everyone in Britain.
It is a timely and important piece of work from the Government Chief Scientific Adviser.
Matt Hancock
Minister for Digital and Culture
评论