ARTIFICIAL INTELLIGENCE AND DEMOCRACY: A DEEP DIVE BY MAXIM INSTITUTE

Maxim Institute's latest discussion paper delves into the complex relationship between Artificial Intelligence (AI) and democracy. Following their initial paper on AI's transformative role in agriculture, this second piece shifts focus to democracy's digital landscape. It begins by highlighting AI's multifaceted benefits across societal sectors. The paper then addresses AI's threats to democratic integrity, emphasizing the amplified effects of tactics like "nudging," misinformation, and the use of misleading content. Additionally, it discusses the heightened power of psychographic voter profiling and microtargeting, now fundamental in swaying elections and influencing policy.

Furthermore, the paper explores external dangers, particularly how foreign governments utilize AI to disrupt elections and sway public opinion, alongside the rise of cybercrime by non-state entities. It also sheds light on multinational corporations exploiting AI to influence public discourse and regulatory debates.

The final section warns of an internal peril: algorithmic government. It cautions against over-relying on AI for policy-making, highlighting the risk of inadvertently transitioning from democratic accountability to a form of digital authoritarianism, diminishing voter engagement and oversight. This comprehensive analysis aims to spark informed discussions about safeguarding democratic processes in the AI era. https://www.maxim.org.nz/article/how-ai-is-changing-democracy/

WEB-How-AI-is-changing-democracy-Oct-23.pdf

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