AI vs. Human Intelligence: Are We on the Path to Replacement?

In the rapidly evolving world of technology, Artificial Intelligence (AI) has become a buzzword, with companies across various sectors embracing its potential for cost savings and efficiency. However, as a new report reveals, the tradeoffs may have been underestimated.

Meta, the social media giant, plans to automate up to 90% of its privacy and integrity reviews using AI. Similarly, Shopify expects all employees to be proficient in AI for their jobs. The founder of Fiverr even expects employees to double or triple their output by mastering AI. Yet, these advancements have sparked concerns.

Doctors in Arizona have voiced worries about AI's increasing role in the insurance industry potentially delaying lifesaving treatments. In response, Arizona's new law requires healthcare claim denials based on medical necessity to be reviewed by a licensed professional.

Klarna, a Swedish fintech company, initially claimed an AI chatbot could replace 700 customer service workers. However, the company is now reversing course, acknowledging the complexity and nuance that human interaction brings.

The provision in question, part of a recent budget bill, prohibits U.S. state and local governments from regulating AI for 10 years. This has led to a call for federal regulation to clarify the situation, as states only have limited power in this area.

Multiple states have recently passed or proposed laws specific to regulating AI, particularly in relation to privacy and data security. California, for instance, requires software developers to provide information on data used to train AI systems. Colorado aims to prevent discrimination in algorithmic models through a new law.

However, the landscape of AI regulation in the healthcare sector is less defined. As of late 2024, no specific U.S. states have recently introduced or passed laws regulating artificial intelligence in the healthcare sector in the past months.

AI decision-making by Meta is initially limited to low-risk decisions, but internal documents suggest it may also be considered for sensitive areas like evaluating violent content and misinformation. This raises concerns about potential real-world harms, as some experts warn that moving too fast with AI could lead to unforeseen consequences.

Representative Marjorie Taylor Greene admitted she didn't fully read the budget bill she voted for, highlighting the need for clear and comprehensive regulation. As the use of AI continues to expand, it's crucial that we tread carefully, ensuring we reap its benefits while minimising its risks.