On the stage of TechCrunch Disrupt 2023, Signal's president Meredith Whittaker delivered a thought-provoking speech, pointing out that artificial intelligence (AI) is largely a surveillance technology. This view reveals the business model behind AI technology, which relies on the collection and processing of large amounts of user data. Whittaker’s remarks not only challenge our traditional perception of AI, but also trigger extensive discussions on privacy and ethical issues.
Whittaker further explained that the development of AI technology is closely related to the rise of surveillance advertising business. Since the late 1990s, this business model has been deeply rooted in the soil of the digital economy. Advances in AI technology, especially in data processing and analysis capabilities, make monitoring more refined and concealed. This change not only changes the face of the advertising industry, but also poses a new threat to personal privacy.
In addition, Whittaker also mentioned the large amount of human resources supporting this industrial chain. She noted that many workers maintain this huge surveillance ecosystem with low wages. This phenomenon not only reflects the inequality in the labor market, but also exposes the social costs behind the development of AI technology. The labor of these workers is often overlooked, but their contribution is crucial to maintaining the operation of AI technology.
The monitoring attributes of AI technology have attracted great attention from all walks of life. With the continuous advancement of technology, how to find a balance between protecting personal privacy and promoting technological development has become an urgent problem. Whittaker's speech reminds us that AI technology is not just a symbol of innovation, it can also become a tool for monitoring and control.
Finally, Whittaker calls on all sectors of society to conduct stricter review and supervision of the application of AI technology. She believes that only through transparent and responsible practices can we ensure that the development of AI technology does not violate individual rights and can also bring real progress to society. This view provides us with a new perspective on thinking about the future development of AI technology and also points us to the direction of action.