In the rapidly evolving world of artificial intelligence, Dr. Avijit Ghosh stands as a critical voice, urging a reevaluation of current AI development paths. As a Technical AI Policy Researcher at Hugging Face, Ghosh emphasizes the importance of aligning AI advancements with genuine human needs. "AI development in general, like corporate AI development, is divorced from the needs of real people who want real human progress," he asserts, highlighting the disconnect between corporate goals and societal benefits.

Our conversation with Dr. Ghosh delves into the ethical and societal implications of AI, advocating for a shift away from the predominant focus on chatbots and generalized AI models. He argues that the industry's current trajectory often overlooks the potential of AI to address pressing social issues, such as accessibility and scientific discovery. By promoting open-source models and collaborative research, Dr. Ghosh believes that AI can truly democratize technology and empower communities worldwide.

Through his research and advocacy, Dr. Ghosh calls for a more inclusive and thoughtful approach to AI development. He envisions a future where AI serves as a tool for enhancing human agency rather than diminishing it. By fostering open dialogue and collaboration, Ghosh aims to bridge the gap between technological innovation and societal progress, ensuring that AI's benefits are shared by all.

Highlights:

• The focus on AGI is misaligned with real human needs: corporate AI development often ignores accessibility and inclusivity.
• Open-source AI can empower communities and democratize technology.
• Scientific discovery is hindered by the lack of AI-ready data and infrastructure.
• Curiosity and reflective learning are essential in education, but AI may hinder them.
• AI should be viewed as a public good, not just a profit-driven tool.

Chapters

00:00 AI and Human Agency: A Critical Discussion

05:23 The Corporate Model of AI Development

08:01 Accessibility and Open Science in AI

09:39 Accent Bias and Digital Exclusion in AI

14:30 AI Fairness and Its Vulnerabilities

18:59 AI for Scientific Discovery: A Social Problem

23:22 Cultural Shortcomings of AI

25:58 The Impact of AI on Education and Curiosity

31:58 Understanding AGI and Its Implications

35:19 The Future of AI: A Call for Open Data Sharing