Can Queer Approaches Provide Guidance On The Ethical Deployment Of Ai In Public Policy, Governance, And Legal Decision-Making?
AI has become an integral part of modern society, with its applications spanning various fields such as healthcare, education, transportation, finance, law enforcement, and even entertainment. As it continues to grow, so does the need for ethical guidelines governing its deployment. One approach that can provide guidance is queer theory, which offers unique insights into issues related to identity, representation, power dynamics, and social justice. This paper explores how queer approaches can inform the development of ethical standards for AI's application in public policy, governance, and legal decision-making.
The first aspect of AI ethics is bias mitigation, whereby algorithms are designed to minimize discriminatory outcomes. According to queer theory, all technologies reflect societal values and structures, including those embedded in algorithmic design.
Gendered language models may perpetuate stereotypes about women and transgender individuals, while facial recognition systems may have a higher error rate when identifying non-binary faces. Therefore, using queer perspectives can help developers avoid these pitfalls by promoting inclusivity and diversity in their designs.
Another crucial aspect of AI ethics is accountability, meaning that users must be aware of how data is collected and used by machines. Queer theory emphasizes the importance of personal agency and autonomy in shaping one's identity, which aligns with the principle of informed consent. By being transparent about data collection and usage, individuals can make informed decisions regarding whether or not they want to share their information with AI systems.
Incorporating privacy protections within machine learning frameworks can prevent unauthorized access to sensitive data.
Queer approaches can promote equitable practices in artificial intelligence by challenging traditional power structures. Power imbalances exist between stakeholders involved in developing and deploying AI technology, such as corporations, governments, and individuals.
Queer theory argues that marginalized groups should have equal participation and representation in decision-making processes. This requires creating safe spaces for diverse voices to be heard and acknowledging the unique experiences of different communities.
Queer perspectives can contribute to the development of legal frameworks governing AI applications.
Courts are increasingly relying on algorithms to predict risk factors for criminal behavior, which has implications for racial justice. Using queer theory, judges could consider how algorithmic biases perpetuate racism or gender inequality when making decisions based on prediction models. They may also consider alternative measures, such as community intervention programs, to address social issues instead of solely punishing offenders.
Queer approaches provide valuable insights into the ethical deployment of AI in public policy, governance, and legal decision-making. By promoting inclusivity, transparency, accountability, and equity, developers and policymakers can create more just and humane technological systems that benefit all members of society.
Can queer approaches provide guidance on the ethical deployment of AI in public policy, governance, and legal decision-making?
There is no universal consensus among queer approaches regarding the ethical deployment of artificial intelligence (AI) in public policy, governance, and legal decision-making. While some scholars advocate for the potential benefits that AI could bring to these areas, others caution against its risks and propose alternative frameworks for addressing them.