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39 - Human Rights, Psychology, and Artificial Intelligence

from Part V - Future Directions

Published online by Cambridge University Press:  02 October 2020

Neal S. Rubin
Affiliation:
Adler University
Roseanne L. Flores
Affiliation:
Hunter College, City University of New York
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Summary

This chapter provides several examples of how artificial intelligence–based technologies are changing human rights practice, from detecting abuses to dealing with their aftermath. It especially focuses on three critical issues where the field of psychology can address a spectrum of human rights needs. The first is the psychological impact of the application of AI within society, specifically the positive and negative impacts of its use within humanitarian and human rights work. The second is the risk of its application perpetuating bias and discrimination. The third is the spread of disinformation and the manipulation of public opinion. While the chapter touches on all three issues, it particularly focuses on the third because of the central role disinformation is currently playing in everything from democratic governance to daily life. For each of these issues, the chapter summarizes how psychological research might provide critical insights for mitigating harm. The chapter closes with priority considerations for minimizing the negative effects of AI on human rights.

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Chapter
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Publisher: Cambridge University Press
Print publication year: 2020

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