In a stern warning to users of chatbot technology, Professor Michael Wooldridge, a distinguished computer scientist from Oxford University, has cautioned against divulging private information to artificial intelligence (AI) systems.
The professor emphasized that sharing personal issues with AI, such as complaints about relationships or expressing political opinions, is “extremely unwise.” His warning comes when AI-powered chatbots like ChatGPT are becoming increasingly prevalent in daily life.
AI’s lack of empathy and sympathy
Professor Wooldridge underscored a critical aspect of AI: its lack of human-like qualities such as empathy and sympathy. He clarified that AI, including chatbots like ChatGPT, does not possess emotions or experiences and is solely designed to provide responses based on user input.
The technology’s primary objective is to tell users what they want to hear rather than offering genuine emotional support or understanding.
One of the most pressing concerns raised by Professor Wooldridge is the handling of user data by AI systems. He advised users to assume that any information they share with chatbots like ChatGPT may be stored and used in future versions of the technology.
Retrieving this data from AI systems is often challenging, and users should exercise caution when providing sensitive or private information to AI platforms.
The role of AI in society
Professor Wooldridge’s warning coincides with his role as the presenter of the Royal Institution’s annual Christmas lectures, where he will explore various aspects of AI. During these lectures, he will collaborate with Ai-Da, the world’s first ultra-realistic robot artist, to shed light on the evolving landscape of artificial intelligence.
Professor Wooldridge emphasized the essential understanding that AI, including chatbots like ChatGPT, lacks empathy and sympathy.
He clarified that AI does not possess emotions or experiences; its primary function is to provide responses based on user input. This means the technology aims to generate answers that align with users’ preferences and desires rather than offering genuine emotional support or understanding.
Data privacy concerns
One of the most pressing concerns raised by Professor Wooldridge is the handling of user data by AI systems. He advised users to assume that any information they share with chatbots like ChatGPT may be stored and used in future iterations of the technology.
Retrieving this data from AI systems can be a challenging task, making it crucial for users to exercise caution when providing sensitive or private information to AI platforms.
The role of AI in society
Professor Wooldridge’s warning comes as he prepares to deliver the Royal Institution’s annual Christmas lectures, focusing on AI and collaborating with Ai-Da, the world’s first ultra-realistic robot artist. Together, they will explore various facets of artificial intelligence and its evolving role in society.
Aidan Meller, director of the Ai-Da project, highlighted the transformative potential of AI across various industries. He described AI as an incredibly powerful force that will reshape society in the coming years. Mr. Meller anticipates “seismic changes” across all sectors by 2026 or 2027 as AI becomes more integrated into everyday life.
The future of AI
Mr. Meller pointed out that 2024 is poised to be a significant year for AI, with the anticipated release of ChatGPT Five. This version is expected to have the capability to not only respond to text-based input but also take actions on behalf of users.
For instance, users might instruct their AI to make restaurant reservations, and ChatGPT Five could handle the entire booking process, including audible communication with the restaurant staff. This development holds great potential for enhancing efficiency in various business applications.
Additionally, Mr. Meller acknowledged the significant progress being made in the development of the Metaverse. This augmented reality platform, spearheaded by Meta, the parent company of Facebook, is expected to have a profound impact in 2024 and beyond.
The Metaverse promises to revolutionize how people interact and engage with digital environments, offering exciting opportunities for both entertainment and business.
