by Editor | Apr 29, 2024 | News
With the recent American foreign military aid package finally passing Congress and signed by the White House, one of its corollary, the bill to ban TikTok, is regaining traction in public debate. Since the last round of discourse, the positions of both sides have not changed, and neither has this column’s. It is indeed in the best interest of not just the US, but the Four Pillars, to ban TikTok. It is unwise to allow a geopolitical rival to hold the ability to manipulate public opinion, compounded by the reach it has. India, one of the Pillars, has banned the social media app since 2020, and the sky hasn’t fallen down there yet. In fact, it should be suspicious that ByteDance would rather cling onto the app instead of spinning or selling it off – it indicates the worth of the app is not just one of monetary value, but something more social, political, and psychological.
Outside of the TikTok talk, the US, a Pillar, has now begun sending military equipment again to Ukraine, as they should have done (or been able to do) months ago. The UK, a part of the Europe Pillar, has also pledged more aid and equipment. These are all needed aids if Ukraine is to withstand further Russian onslaught and invasion – and if China is ramping up its aid for Russia as reported.
REUTERS/Dado Ruvic/Illustration/File Photo
Minh Nguyen is the Chief Editor of the Boston Global Forum and a Shinzo Abe Initiative Fellow. She writes the Four Pillars column in the BGF Weekly newsletter.
by Editor | Jun 9, 2024 | Papers & Reports, News, Publications
INTERRELIGIOUS CONFERENCE 2024, Rome, Italy May 31 – June 4
Center for Interreligious Dialogue – Focolare Movement
Nguyen Anh Tuan, Nguyen Phan Nguyet Minh
In the rapidly evolving landscape of artificial intelligence (AI), the need for a comprehensive knowledge platform has never been more pressing. As AI systems continue to permeate various aspects of our lives, from healthcare and finance to transportation and entertainment, the importance of having a centralized repository of knowledge to inform decision-making processes is paramount. Due to this necessity, the Boston Global Forum has conceived the Knowledge Platform for AI. This Knowledge Platform can serve as an essential resource, providing a foundation upon which AI applications and systems can reference, think critically, and make informed decisions.
Rooted in ethics and standards, this platform can offer guidance and reference points for individuals navigating the complexities of artificial intelligence. Emphasizing humanity, compassion, and moral judgement, it embodies a commitment to fostering ethical practices and responsible use of AI technologies. By integrating intellectual rigor with ethical considerations, the platform empowers users to make informed decisions that align with ethical principles and societal values, promoting integrity, fairness, and accountability in AI applications across various domains.
At its core, the Knowledge Platform for AI seeks to aggregate and organize vast amounts of data, information, and expertise from diverse sources, both modern and historical. It encompasses the Social Contract for the AI Age, standard values of AI World Society (AIWS), historical data, norms, ethics, and background information from politics, science, and the economy. By consolidating this wealth of information into a single, accessible platform, AI systems can draw upon a wide range of insights to enhance their understanding and decision-making capabilities.
Integration of Spiritual Values from Various Religions into The Knowledge Platform for AI:
A dimension of the Knowledge Platform is incorporating the spiritual values of various and diverse religions into its development, enriching its ethical framework and enhancing its ability to guide decision-making processes. The principles and values of world religious traditions, such as Catholicism, Hinduism, Islam, Buddhism, and Judaism, can contribute to the platform:
Catholicism:
Human Dignity (Dignitatis Humanae): Catholic teachings on human dignity emphasizes the inherent dignity and worth of every human being, regardless of their background or circumstances. Everyone is made in God’s image, and can grow in virtue through their own actions with grace. This value underscores the importance of respecting individual autonomy, privacy, and rights in AI decision-making processes, but also the need to steer individuals toward a moral and ethical path.
Social Justice: Catholic social teaching, first emphasized in the Rerum Novarum, commits to the idea of a just society where the needs of the marginalized and vulnerable are prioritized, that all believers are equal. Integrating this value into the platform ensures that AI systems consider the broader societal implications of their actions and strive to promote equality and brotherhood among humanity.
Hinduism:
Ahimsa (Non-violence): Ahimsa is a central tenet of Hinduism, advocating for non-violence and compassion towards all living beings, as all have a spark of spiritual energy. A prominent practitioner of this principle was Mahatma Gandhi. This value encourages AI systems to prioritize peaceful and non-coercive methods in their interactions with humans, and for AI to not do harm.
Dharma (Virtue, Duty and Righteousness): Dharma emphasizes the importance of fulfilling one’s duty and upholding righteousness in all actions. By integrating this virtue, the platform encourages AI systems to act ethically and responsibly, considering the long-term consequences of their decisions.
Islam:
Justice (Adl): Adl conceptualizes justice within the individual, of having strong morals, integrity and moderation. Incorporating this value into the platform ensures that AI systems uphold principles of fairness and impartiality, treating all individuals with dignity and respect.
Mercy/Beneficient (Rahmah): Rahmah, a Name of God in Islam, is another key value, encouraging compassion and grace towards others. Divine mercy is extended to all of God’s creation. AI systems guided by this value can conceptualize understanding and mercy, leading to more empathetic and humane interactions.
Buddhism:
Selflessness/Compassion (Karuna): Karuna is a quality that needs to be honed on the path to enlightenment. By practicing this value, one can be more willing to let go of mortal hostilities and sorrows. This value encourages AI systems to prioritize the well-being of individuals and communities, promoting awareness and altruism in their decision-making processes.
Wisdom (Prajna): Wisdom, or more specifically insight or gained intuition, is key in Buddhism, as it is the ability to meditate and reflect on the nature of being or phenomena. Integrating this value into the platform ensures that AI systems make informed and judicious decisions that consider the broader implications and consequences.
Judaism:
Tikkun Olam (Repairing the World): This concept classically called for the maintenance of order and jurisdiction, but it has now been interpreted and expanded to the pursuit of social justice and righteousness, that Jews had a duty to both their individual/spiritual welfare and the welfare of society at large. Incorporating this value into the platform encourages AI systems to contribute positively to societal well-being and address pressing issues facing humanity.
Laws/Principles (Halakha): The Halakha refers to the body of religious laws, commandments, and traditions of Judaism. Through the lens of this Judaic tradition, which promotes ethical systems and guidance for the lives of believers, AI systems can be guided by ethical considerations that prioritize integrity, honesty, and accountability.
By embracing the spiritual values of these diverse religious traditions, The Knowledge Platform for AI becomes a more holistic and moral resource, capable of guiding AI decision-making processes in a manner that upholds ethical standards and respects human values.
by Editor | Apr 28, 2024 | News
Ladies and gentlemen, distinguished guests,
It is with great pleasure and honor that I stand before you today to celebrate the remarkable contributions of Dr. Alondra Nelson as she receives the prestigious 2024 World Leader in AI World Society Award.
Dr. Nelson’s illustrious career is a testament to her unwavering commitment to advancing public policy, governance of artificial intelligence, and our understanding of the societal dimensions of AI development and deployment. As the former Deputy Assistant to President Joe Biden and Acting Director of the White House Office of Science and Technology Policy, Dr. Nelson has played a pivotal role in shaping the landscape of AI governance and policy.
Her leadership at the OSTP led to the development of the groundbreaking “Blueprint for an AI Bill of Rights,” a significant milestone that has been integrated into federal policy under President Biden’s executive order. Dr. Nelson’s efforts have also been instrumental in expanding taxpayer access to federally funded research, advancing evidence-based policymaking, and championing equity and excellence in STEM fields.
Dr. Nelson’s achievements are well recognized and speak volumes about her impact on the global stage. Identified by Nature as one of the top 10 influencers in science and named to the TIME100 list of the most influential people in AI, her dedication and expertise have garnered international acclaim. Additionally, her nomination by the Biden-Harris administration and appointment to the UN High-Level Advisory Board on AI by Secretary-General António Guterres, highlights her pivotal role in shaping global AI governance.
Today, we gather to honor Dr. Nelson’s extraordinary contributions to society and to express our profound gratitude for her tireless efforts in advancing civil and human rights, democratic freedoms, and responsible AI practice. Her unwavering dedication exemplifies the core principles of the AI World Society initiative, and her vision continues to inspire us all as we navigate the complexities of the AI age.
In addition, I am pleased to note the Boston Global Forum’s pioneering efforts in AI governance since 2017 through the AI World Society Initiative. From its inception, BGF has been at the forefront of advocating for responsible and ethical AI development, striving to ensure that the benefits of AI are equitably distributed for all and that its potential risks are mitigated.
As Chair of Boston Global Forum, I am particularly gratified to witness the realization of BGF’s recommendations in AI governance. The impact of our collective efforts underscores the importance of collaboration and shared vision as we work through the challenges of the AI Age.
BGF’s commitment to advancing AI governance continues to strive for positive change and shape the future of technology policy on a global scale.
Dr. Nelson, on behalf of the Boston Global Forum and all those gathered here today, I extend my heartfelt congratulations to you. Your achievements are a beacon of hope for a future where technology serves the betterment of humanity. We are privileged to recognize your outstanding contributions and look forward to the continued impact of your work.
Thank you.
