AI: The Hidden Cost of “Free” – Users as Products
During a recent road trip, while searching for a quick meal stop, I used Google Maps to locate “Food Near Me.” The options were disappointing—primarily chain restaurants like Pizza Hut, McDonald’s, and Taco Bell. This wasn’t always the case; the quaint local diners and unique eateries seemed to have vanished from my recommendations. It dawned on me then: in the eyes of Google Maps, I was not the customer but the product.
This revelation extended beyond just a map service. I reflected on all the “free” services where I had willingly submitted my personal data: Gmail, YouTube, Google Search, and more. My behaviors and preferences, from travel to purchases, were being monitored and monetized, primarily serving the interests of big advertisers, not users like me.
Artificial Intelligence (AI) mirrors this model. AI technologies, funded by hefty investments, are designed to serve those who finance them—not necessarily the users. As we increasingly depend on AI for daily interactions, advice, and information, it’s crucial to recognize that these systems prioritize their creators’ goals over ours.
For instance, when I interacted with ChatGPT, asking for a quote about reality TV’s impact on society, it provided an impressive but ultimately fabricated response. It claimed the quote was from my book, yet upon further inquiry, the AI confessed to its error, a stark reminder of the limitations and biases inherent in these systems.
This scenario underscores the importance of skepticism towards technology that doesn’t directly charge its users. We must question the accuracy and motives behind the information provided by AI, recognizing the influence of those who fund and control these platforms.
We stand at a crossroads in the digital age, where AI has the potential to significantly influence our perception of truth and reality. As noted by Tom Wheeler in his book “TechLash,” we must not rely on outdated understandings in this new technological era. We need to demand that AI prioritize truth over profit, ensuring that it serves as a reliable aid rather than a deceptive tool.
The future of AI should involve a transparent relationship where user benefit aligns with technological advancements, not a continuation of the user-as-product model. Without this shift, we risk allowing AI to become a manipulative force, shaped by commercial interests rather than genuine utility and honesty.
As we navigate this landscape, let’s advocate for a future where AI and technology empower rather than exploit. This is not just about avoiding misleading taco recommendations but about ensuring that our technological guardians can genuinely be trusted to enhance our lives.