Coming to Bonney Memorial Library on July 16! - Navigating the Future of AI: Benefits Risks and the Importance of Community Conversations

Artificial Intelligence (AI) is no longer a distant concept from science fiction. It is deeply woven into many parts of our daily lives, from how we communicate to how we receive healthcare. As AI technologies grow more powerful and widespread, communities around the world are engaging in important conversations about what AI means for society. These discussions focus on the potential benefits AI offers, the ethical risks it poses, and how we can use AI responsibly.

This post explores these community conversations, highlighting real-world examples, ethical considerations, and insights from experts like

Understanding AI’s impact requires more than technical knowledge; it demands awareness, transparency, and thoughtful dialogue.

Dr. Jonathan Beever &

Dr. Laurie Pinkert

Real-World Applications of AI That Affect Us Today

AI is transforming many fields by automating tasks, improving accuracy, and providing new insights. Two examples stand out for their practical impact and the ethical questions they raise.

AI Transcription in Healthcare

In healthcare, AI transcription tools convert spoken language from doctors and patients into written records. This technology speeds up documentation, reduces errors, and allows medical professionals to focus more on patient care. For example, AI-powered transcription systems can listen during patient visits and generate detailed notes instantly.

While this improves efficiency, it also raises concerns about privacy and data security. Patients and providers must trust that sensitive health information is handled carefully. Additionally, AI transcription may not always capture nuances or context, which can affect the quality of medical records.

Website Summarization by Google

Google uses AI to summarize web pages, helping users quickly understand content without reading entire articles. This feature saves time and makes information more accessible, especially for people with limited time or reading challenges.

However, summarization algorithms might oversimplify or miss important details, potentially leading to misunderstandings. Transparency about how summaries are created and what information might be left out is essential for users to make informed decisions.

!Eye-level view of a healthcare professional using AI transcription software on a tablet

Why AI Literacy Matters for Everyone

As AI tools become more common, it is crucial for individuals and communities to develop AI literacy. This means understanding how AI works, its limitations, and the ethical questions it raises. AI literacy empowers people to use technology wisely and advocate for responsible AI development.

Key Questions to Ask Before Using AI Tools

Before relying on any AI tool, consider these questions:

• What data does the AI use, and is it accurate and unbiased?

• How transparent is the AI about its processes and decisions?

• Who created the AI, and what are their motivations?

• What are the potential risks or harms of using this AI?

• Can I verify or challenge the AI’s output if needed?

  
  

These questions help users avoid blind trust in AI and encourage critical thinking.

The Need for Transparency in AI Usage

Transparency means clear communication about how AI systems work, what data they use, and how decisions are made. Without transparency, users cannot fully understand or trust AI tools. Transparency also allows for accountability, making it easier to identify and fix problems like bias or errors.

Developers and organizations should provide accessible explanations of AI functions and limitations. This openness supports informed choices and builds public confidence.

When to Refuse AI Technologies

Not every situation benefits from AI. People should feel empowered to refuse AI tools when:

• The AI compromises privacy or security.

• The AI’s decisions affect rights or freedoms without human oversight.

• The AI lacks fairness or shows bias against certain groups.

• The AI replaces human judgment in sensitive contexts without clear benefits.

  
  

Refusing AI is a way to protect personal values and promote ethical standards.

Who Benefits from AI Development and How Benefits Are Distributed

AI development often benefits companies and researchers who create and control the technology. However, the broader community should also gain from AI advances, including improved services, accessibility, and quality of life.

Equitable distribution of AI benefits requires attention to social and economic factors. For example, AI in healthcare should be accessible to underserved populations, not just those with resources. Community input and inclusive policies can help ensure AI serves everyone fairly.

Insights from Experts on AI’s Future and Its Impact on Individuals

Jonathan Beever, PhD is an alumnus of the University of Maine (B.A. in Philosophy ’03). He is currently a Professor of Philosophy at the University of Central Florida where he teaches courses in digital ethics. He is funded by the National Science Foundation for research around emerging technologies and ethical decision-making, and has published widely of ethics of emerging technologies including AI. As a citizen and parent, he thinks about how market and social forces shape decisions that influence our future generations, both interpersonally and environmentally.

Laurie A. Pinkert, PhD is an alumna of the University of Maine (M.A. in English '08). She is currently an Associate Professor of Writing and Rhetoric at the University of Central Florida where she teaches courses in AI Literacies. She has consulted on the development of AI policies; has been hired by AI-coauthoring platforms to study the impacts of these tools on productivity, quality, and personal development; and has published on the linguistic limitations of AI-powered chatbots. These days, she finds herself thinking a lot about the ways AI will shape the communication demands of tomorrow and how we can help our communities and our kids develop the literacy skills that we will need to thrive in the future.

Together, Jonathan and Laurie have asked a lot of questions about AI and have been invited to participate in panels, workshops, and meetings. They co-developed an undergraduate certificate program that introduces college students across majors to the human impacts of big data and artificial intelligence. The have also published on AI and academic integrity and are excited to bring their knowledge and experience to civic groups of all shapes and sizes.

Both experts agree that AI’s future is not predetermined. It depends on ongoing dialogue, ethical reflection, and active participation by diverse voices.