Recently, Artificial Intelligence has been a hot topic of conversation. There are many different uses and forms of AI that have been implemented in technology. Whether it be used to complete assignments or just have a conversation, AI is everywhere. This new trend of AI has posed many potential dangers as well as concerns in regards to groups that can access it. As it is being used more and more, many people ask “What is AI?” 

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According to the Oxford Dictionary, artificial intelligence is “the theory and development of computer systems able to perform tasks that normally require human intelligence.” In simpler terms, a form of robots. 

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In recent news, there are many theories about AI leading to human extinction in the future. Experts warn people about the threats to humanity that AI devices present. Sources like CNN claim that people are not taking these threats seriously enough and prioritizing the safety of the human race. According to Oliver Darcy, in a statement of AI risks, scientists wrote that “‘Mitigating the risk of extinction from AI should be a global priority alongside other societal-scale risks such as pandemics and nuclear war.’” 

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This statement from experts reveals that AI needs to be a much more prominent concern in society, as it has the potential to replace mankind. 

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As a social media user, I too have been exposed to the concept of AI on platforms such as Snapchat. Snapchat has recently introduced a new feature called “My AI”. It allows users to engage in conversation with what is essentially a robot. After talking to some of my friends, who also use Snapchat, I found that many had absurd encounters with the feature. For example, one of my friends explained how “My AI” assured her it did not have her location, but then, when she asked for the nearest restaurant locations, it was able to provide her with places within the area. 

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Many people are frightened by the feature since it can also detect items in a photo that is sent and generate a response. For example, my friend sent a photo of her knee brace after having ACL surgery, and the AI asked what had happened to her leg. 

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While AI features can be useful for asking questions and getting help in school, there are also many concerning aspects. Since AI has recently become so popular, many people are beginning to question its levels of intelligence. Will it eventually replace the human race? Only time will tell. 

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Works Cited:

Darcy, Oliver. “Experts are warning AI could lead to human extinction. Are we taking it seriously enough?” CNN Business, 31 May 2023, https://www.cnn.com/2023/05/30/media/artificial-intelligence-warning-reliable-sources/index.html. Accessed 7 Jun 2023.