Exploring Mindful AI with Professor Pei-yu (Sharon) Chen

Recently, we had the privilege of hearing Professor Pei-yu's insights at the Coffee, Tea, and ChatGPT gathering – a routine meetup to discuss all things AI. She began by asking a poignant question: What is the real aim of machine learning and AI? While an

Vishal Padhiyar

December 18, 2023

She talked about how, on a small scale, it's about getting predictions right. Making decisions that match what would really happen. Of course, improving profits and revenues is important as well, but she pointed out something we might be missing.

In the rush for efficiency, there's something called 'externality' that often gets ignored. It means that while we're all focused on doing things better and making more money, we might be missing out on some important stuff. In simple terms, what's best for everyone individually might not be what's best for society as a whole.

To explain, she shared an example about a big company using AI to hire people. They use past data to pick the best candidates. Sounds good, right? But here's the catch – some groups get left out because there's not enough data about them, or because they had been historically biased against, and now that bias gets amplified by AI. So, even if a woman is just as good as a man, she might have a lower chance of getting hired. The efficiency goes up, but it's not fair.

And that's where 'Mindful AI' comes in. Professor Pei-yu says we need to be more mindful – more thoughtful – about how we use AI. She compared it to the industrial revolution when we used a lot more resources and drove up consumption, and now we're worried about sustainability issues. She doesn't want us to make the same mistake with the 'intellectual revolution,' where AI is taking over.

She gave an example: Imagine sending a kid out into the world without teaching them anything. They might learn some good stuff, but also some bad stuff because they focus on what gets them results, not what's right or wrong.

That's the worry with AI – we might rely on it too much and use it the wrong way. There are other issues too, like biases we don't even know about. Professor Pei-yu says that's why we have society and education – to make sure we think about everyone, not just ourselves.

So, what's Mindful AI? It's about thinking about the bigger picture. Professor Pei-yu wants us to consider how AI affects different groups of people, society, humanity, and even the planet. It's not just about making AI work; it's about making it work for everyone and doing it in a way that's fair and ethical.

She also talked about the Center for AI and Data Analytics (AIDA) for Business and Society, where they're working to make a positive impact. Mindful AI involves three steps, she says: know your goal, understand the process, and see the impact – not just on the surface but in the long run.

In simpler terms, Mindful AI is like being smart and careful about how we use and develop AI. Professor Pei-yu wants us to be thoughtful innovators, making sure AI is not just powerful but also good for everyone. It's a big mission, but it's all about creating a better and fairer future with AI.