Autonomous Intelligent Systems: From Illusion of Control to Inescapable Delusion

TL;DR

This paper critically examines the societal and regulatory perceptions of autonomous systems, arguing that reliance on control illusions may lead us to inevitable misconceptions about their true influence and autonomy.

Contribution

It highlights the discrepancy between perceived control and the actual autonomous influence of AI systems, emphasizing the need to rethink regulatory and societal approaches.

Findings

Illusion of control influences policy decisions

Autonomous systems may cause societal delusions

Regulatory frameworks might be misguided

Abstract

Autonomous systems, including generative AI, have been adopted faster than previous digital innovations. Their impact on society might as well be more profound, with a radical restructuring of the economy of knowledge and dramatic consequences for social and institutional balances. Different attitudes to control these systems have emerged rooted in the classical pillars of legal systems, proprietary rights, and social responsibility. We show how an illusion of control might be guiding governments and regulators, while autonomous systems might be driving us to inescapable delusion.