British Government: Don't Let Public Public Anxiety Against Artificial Intelligence Just Like GM Plants

The public is expected not to worry too much about AI developments. (photo: dock. pexels)

The UK Government's New Head of Scientific Advisor, Professor Dame Angela McLean, warned that experts should ensure that the public does not become anxious about artificial intelligence as happened with genetic engineering plants (GM crops).

Professor Dame Angela McLean stated that she is an "optimistic AI", but public acceptance of new technologies is very important. He said this when asked about his thoughts about artificial intelligence on the Committee for Science, Innovation and Technology.

"One of the things I really hope will be discussed - in addition to technical matters - is that there is a discussion about public acceptance because I think it is very important," McLean said, when asked about the first summit of artificial intelligence to be held by Britain later this year. "Remember what happened to the GM plant? Let's do it again."

Agriculture of genetic engineering plants has increased rapidly since it was introduced to consumers in the mid-1990s.

However, public perceptions have been plagued by concerns over security, with concerns over health risks, impacts on the environment, and what could happen if it interferes with nature.

"Worries can arise due to the ability of artificial intelligence to develop itself very quickly", Dame Angela said, quoted by MailOnline.

"I think the thing that makes many people feel a bit anxious is the feeling of shock from the people who are building the latest generation artificial intelligence models about how capable they are," he said.

"And that's a bit different than our expectations for engineers usually do. We usually expect an engineer to build something and know exactly what to do or not," he added.

"So I think it has caused, correctly, a bit of concern. So I think this is the right time for us to focus on safety. I really want it not to be a burden of shipping and exploitation," he explained.

Despite concerns, he said it remains an "AI optimist", adding that ensuring artificial intelligence works well for the public and within the government "will fill us all throughout the rest of our lives".

"I think AI is a very basic technology," he added. "I think it's a bit difficult for all of us to understand how much it will continue to change our lives."

"Sometimes you just have to stop and think how much it has changed our lives. A lot of things that used to be difficult are now so easy. And I think, to be honest, this is just the beginning. I think our lives will change in many ways, mostly for the better."