Ashoka Institute of Technology and Management

Impact of AI since its Inception

BY: UTKRISHT VERMA

Roll No. : 2206410100060
B.Tech (CSE)
 Contents

1. Abstract_________________________________________________________ 2

2. Introduction _____________________________________________________ 2

2.A. Definition of AI and its historical Development

2.B. Importance of studying impact of AI

3. Revolutionising Industries with AI ____________________________________ 3

3.A. Healthcare

3.B. Transportation

4. Enabling new forms of creativity and communication ____________________ 4

4.A. Arts and Design

4.B. Human Computer Interaction

5. Ethical, Social and Political implications of AI ___________________________ 4

5.A. Bias and Discrimination

5.B. Privacy and Surveillance

6. Conclusion ____________________________________________________

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 Impact of AI since its Inception

Abstract: In recent years, artificial intelligence (AI) has become increasingly

prevalent and influential in various fields, including healthcare, finance,
education, and transportation. With this growing presence comes an urgent need
to understand the impact of AI on individuals, organizations, and society at large.

1. Introduction

A. Definition of AI and its historical Development

Artificial Intelligence (AI) is the simulation of human intelligence in machines, allowing

computers to perform tasks that typically require human intervention, such as
understanding spoken or written language, recognizing patterns, solving problems, and
making decisions. The origins of AI can be traced back to ancient civilizations, where
automatons and mechanical devices were created to imitate living beings.

The formal study of AI began in earnest during the mid-20th century when researchers
started exploring ways to create intelligent machines capable of performing complex
cognitive functions. In 1956, John McCarthy organized the Dartmouth Conference,
widely regarded as the birthplace of AI as a distinct academic discipline. At this
conference, attendees proposed developing machines that could utilize symbols and
rules to emulate human problem-solving abilities.

During the late 1950s and 1960s, early AI research primarily revolved around creating
expert systems—computer programs designed to mimic the decision-making capabilities
of human experts in specific domains. Symbolic AI, also referred to as good old-
fashioned AI, dominated this period. Researchers developed logical representations and
rule-based systems to encode knowledge and enable automated reasoning. Notable
examples of successful expert systems included MYCIN, which diagnosed infectious
diseases, and XCON, which configured VAX computers for Digital Equipment
Corporation.

Despite initial enthusiasm, symbolic AI encountered limitations due to difficulties scaling

up to handle real-world complexity. Consequently, alternative approaches emerged,
emphasizing connectionism, embodied cognition, and probabilistic modeling.
Subsymbolic methods, such as neural networks and machine learning, gained
prominence during the 1980s and 1990s, facilitating new breakthroughs in pattern
recognition, natural language processing, and adaptive control.

In particular, machine learning exploits statistical techniques to uncover underlying

structures within massive datasets automatically, dispensing with the need for explicit
programming. Among machine learning paradigms, deep learning stands out for its
ability to extract hierarchical abstractions via multilayered artificial neural networks.
Applications span diverse fields, including autonomous vehicles, personalized medicine,
financial forecasting, and creative arts.

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 B. Importance of studying impact of AI

Studying the effect of AI is critical for several reasons:

1. Anticipating Risks and Mitigating Negative Consequences: AI systems have been

found to exhibit biases and discriminatory behavior, which can perpetuate
existing inequities or even create new ones. Moreover, there are concerns
regarding data privacy, cybersecurity, and accountability when using AI.
Examining the impact of AI allows us to identify these risks and devise strategies
to mitigate them. Policymakers, regulators, and industry leaders must work
together to establish guidelines and frameworks that ensure the safe and
responsible use of AI technologies.
2. Identifying Opportunities for Innovation and Growth: On the other hand, AI
offers tremendous potential for innovation and progress across multiple sectors.
From automating mundane tasks to enabling breakthrough discoveries in
scientific research, AI can revolutionize the way we live and work. Studying the
impact of AI helps us uncover these opportunities, guiding investments and
resources towards promising applications and fostering technological
advancements.
3. Fostering Equitable Access to Benefits: While some may reap substantial
rewards from AI-driven innovations, others might face barriers to adoption due
to factors like affordability, limited digital literacy, or cultural differences.
Analyzing the societal implications of AI enables us to design inclusive solutions
and bridge gaps in accessibility, ensuring that all segments of society can enjoy
the advantages of AI.
4. Encouraging Ethical Development and Deployment: Questions surrounding
transparency, explainability, fairness, and trustworthiness often arise during
discussions about AI. By examining its impact, we can engage in thoughtful
debates about the proper application of AI, balancing the pursuit of innovation
with considerations of ethics and morality. Additionally, this knowledge can
guide developers and practitioners to adopt best practices in designing, testing,
and deploying AI systems responsibly.
5. Promoting Dialogue and Collaboration: Lastly, exploring the impact of AI
encourages conversations among stakeholders from diverse disciplines and
backgrounds. Bringing together experts in technology, policy, ethics, sociology,
and other fields fosters interdisciplinary collaboration, leading to well-rounded
insights into the complex interactions between humans and machines.

Revolutionising Industries with AI

Healthcare

The integration of Artificial Intelligence (AI) into the healthcare sector has initiated a revolutionary
transformation, significantly impacting various aspects of medical practice. By leveraging advanced
computational capabilities, AI facilitates improved patient outcomes, streamlined operational
efficiencies, and reduced costs.

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One prominent area where AI shines is diagnostics. Machine learning algorithms can sift through
massive datasets comprising radiology images, genomic sequences, lab results, and electronic health
records to detect subtle anomalies indicative of diseases like cancer, cardiovascular conditions, and
neurological disorders at their earliest stages. For instance, Google's DeepMind Health recently
unveiled an AI system capable of spotting eye diseases as accurately as top ophthalmologists.
Similarly, IBM Watson Health uses cognitive computing to aid oncologists in diagnosing complex
malignancies and recommending personalized treatment plans.

During surgical interventions, AI serves as a valuable adjunct. Robotic systems guided by AI

algorithms enable precise movements, reduce tremors, enhance visualization, and minimize tissue
trauma during microsurgeries. These advancements lead to quicker recoveries, fewer complications,
and better overall clinical results. Case in point: da Vinci Surgical Systems incorporate AI technology
to improve dexterity and control during laparoscopic procedures.

Virtual health assistants harnessing natural language processing engage in interactive dialogues with
patients regarding symptomatology, medications, and appointment schedules. Chatbots powered by
AI triage patients effectively, direct them towards appropriate levels of care, and even offer
psychological counseling services. A prime example is Babylon Health's digital GP consultation
platform which integrates speech recognition and NLP technologies to deliver customized healthcare
advice.

Predictive analytics driven by machine learning bolsters hospital resource management. Accurate
forecasting models anticipate demand fluctuations, inform optimal staff scheduling decisions,
minimize equipment downtimes, and decrease avoidable readmissions. Cerner Corporation's
predictive modeling tool exemplifies this trend, employing historical admission rates alongside
current census figures to guide capacity planning efforts.

Furthermore, pharmaceutical companies reap substantial benefits from AI application in drug

research and development. Simulation software built upon ML principles accelerates compound
screening processes, identifies promising therapeutic candidates, and predicts possible adverse
effects – all within shorter timeframes than traditional methods allow. Illustratively, BenevolentAI
applies AI techniques to mine scientific literature, extract relevant biomedical insights, and propose
novel targets for drug design.

Finally, telemedicine platforms fortified with AI extend reach and convenience of healthcare
services. Remote monitoring devices transmit physiological parameters wirelessly to cloud storage
facilities accessible by authorized practitioners. Consequently, timely response to deteriorating
trends becomes feasible, thereby upholding standards of care despite geographical barriers.
Examples include Propeller Health's smart inhalers tracking asthma attacks or Philips'
eCareCoordinator managing chronic illnesses via connected sensors and wearables.

2. Enabling new forms of creativity and communication

A. Arts and Design

In the realm of fine arts, AI algorithms can generate original pieces of art that mimic the
styles of famous painters or even combine multiple styles into something entirely new.
These AI-generated works have gained recognition from art critics and collectors alike,

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 challenging traditional notions of artistic expression. Moreover, AI is also being used to
restore damaged historical artworks by recreating missing parts based on existing
patterns and textures.

Designers are leveraging AI's capabilities to streamline workflows, optimize designs for
specific use cases, and explore innovative solutions that might otherwise be overlooked.
For instance, generative design software uses machine learning algorithms to produce
numerous variations of a product or structure based on predefined constraints, allowing
designers to choose the best option. Similarly, natural language processing techniques
enable chatbots and virtual assistants to help users make informed decisions about
aesthetic preferences or functional requirements.

However, as with any technology, there are ethical considerations surrounding AI in art
and design. Issues such as authorship attribution, intellectual property rights, and
potential job displacement need to be addressed transparently and fairly. As we
continue to integrate AI into our creative processes, it is crucial to foster collaborative
relationships between humans and machines while maintaining respect for each other's
unique contributions.

B. Human-Computer Interaction

One way AI is enhancing HCI is through voice recognition and natural language
processing. Users can interact with computers using conversational language, allowing
for a more seamless and hands-free experience. For example, smart speakers like
Amazon Echo and Google Home use AI to understand and respond to voice commands,
enabling users to control various devices and services in their homes.

Another area where AI is making an impact is in gesture recognition. With the help of
machine learning algorithms, computers can recognize and interpret hand movements
and body postures, providing new ways for users to interact with technology. Virtual
reality (VR) and augmented reality (AR) systems are utilizing this technology to create
immersive experiences that allow users to manipulate virtual objects with their hands.

Moreover, AI-powered chatbots have become increasingly popular as they offer

personalized customer service experiences. By analysing user input and previous
interactions, these bots can provide tailored responses and recommendations, leading
to higher levels of engagement and satisfaction.

Furthermore, AI is also being used to improve accessibility in HCI. Assistive technologies

such as eye-tracking software and speech-to-text converters enable people with
disabilities to interact with computers more easily. These tools use AI to learn from the
user's unique patterns and adjust accordingly, creating a customized experience.

3. Ethical, Social, and Political Implications

A. Bias and Discrimination

On one hand, AI can automate routine tasks, increasing productivity and reducing costs.
This could lead to job displacement in certain sectors such as manufacturing, customer
service, and transportation. However, the rise of AI also creates new jobs related to data
analysis, machine learning engineering, and ethical oversight. Additionally, AI can

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 augment human capabilities by providing real-time insights and decision support,
enabling workers to perform more complex tasks. As AI becomes increasingly integrated
into the workforce, it is essential that organizations invest in training programs to upskill
their employees and ensure a smooth transition.

B. Privacy and Surveillance

With the ability to collect vast amounts of personal data from various sources, including
social media, smart devices, and public cameras, AI algorithms can create detailed
profiles of individuals and track their behaviour. While this technology can be useful for
law enforcement and national security purposes, there are risks associated with
unauthorized access, misuse, or exploitation of sensitive information. Moreover,
pervasive monitoring and predictive analytics may result in discriminatory practices and
violations of civil liberties.

4. Conclusion

To conclude, the societal impact of artificial intelligence since its inception has been
substantial and far-reaching, affecting numerous dimensions of our lives. By examining the
evolution of AI technologies, their applications in various sectors, policy responses, and
ethical considerations, this thesis highlights the importance of adopting a holistic and
collaborative approach towards navigating the effects of AI. It becomes clear that striking a
balance between harnessing the opportunities presented by AI and mitigating its negative
ramifications demands concerted effort from all relevant stakeholders – policymakers,
researchers, businesses, and citizens alike. Furthermore, continuous monitoring and
evaluation are crucial to ensure that AI remains aligned with societal values and aspirations.
Ultimately, embracing AI responsibly requires us not only to develop robust technical
capabilities but also to foster strong ethical foundations, constructive dialogues, and
forward-looking policies. With these elements in place, humanity can unlock the true
potential of AI and create a more equitable, prosperous, and innovative world.

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