In-Short
- University of Maryland researchers focus on ethical AI development, combining philosophy and computer science.
- Ilaria Canavotto works on a hybrid approach for AI to understand and apply ethical and legal norms.
- Vaishnav Kameswaran examines AI’s discriminatory impact in hiring practices, especially against people with disabilities.
- Both researchers advocate for interdisciplinary collaboration and policy changes to address AI ethics.
Summary
At the University of Maryland, interdisciplinary teams are pioneering research to integrate ethical frameworks into artificial intelligence (AI) development. Researchers Ilaria Canavotto and Vaishnav Kameswaran are addressing the challenges of embedding ethical principles into AI systems and exploring the societal implications of AI deployment.
Normative Understanding in AI
Canavotto, part of UMD’s Values-Centered Artificial Intelligence initiative, is developing a hybrid approach that merges top-down and bottom-up methods. This approach aims to program AI with the ability to learn from data while maintaining transparency in decision-making, rooted in legal and normative reasoning.
AI and Employment Ethics
Kameswaran’s research reveals that AI hiring platforms may inadvertently discriminate against candidates with disabilities by relying on normative behavioral cues. He emphasizes the need for audit tools and policy updates, such as revising the Americans with Disabilities Act, to combat AI-related discrimination.
Broader Ethical Considerations
The ethical concerns of AI are vast, touching on data privacy, consent, transparency, and societal biases. The researchers highlight the importance of public awareness and interdisciplinary efforts to navigate these ethical landscapes effectively.
Future Directions
While technical solutions like Canavotto’s hybrid approach and Kameswaran’s audit tools are in development, both researchers acknowledge the need for a multi-faceted strategy to address the complex ethical challenges posed by AI.
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