November 23, 2023

The use of Artificial Intelligence (AI) is becoming more prevalent by the day, with people employing the technologies in various fields and applications. However, the power of AI does not come without drawbacks, and users are aware of this. There are significant ongoing debates within the scientific and technological communities about the implications and future of AI.

Users of AI tools are aware of these concerns as well, considering factors like whether tech companies have programmed the AI in a way that subtly manipulates the user. In ‘Understanding user interactions and perceptions of AI risk in Singapore’ (Big Data & Society, 2023), Assistant Professor Taberez Ahmed Neyazi, Sheryl Wei Ting Ng, and Professor Audrey Yue (all from NUS Communications and New Media) study how AI has affected the general public in Singapore, exploring their perceptions towards it and its effects on their daily lives.

To accomplish their objectives, the researchers employed Beck’s risk society theory as well as an audience-centred sense-making approach. They carried out five focus groups with 36 participants from Singapore, taking note of Singapore’s status as a technologically-advanced nation.

The study revealed that users of AI did exercise caution and showed awareness of its various risks. They were cognizant of common practices of companies tailoring algorithms for marketing purposes, and attempted to “outsmart” these efforts when using these algorithms. However, despite the users’ awareness, many were influenced by the system nonetheless. The authors conclude by discussing theoretical and policy implications of their findings, such as addressing perceived risks to improve AI adoption and better data regulation.

Read the article here: https://doi.org/10.1177/20539517231213823