Joy Buolamwini’s Unmasking AI: My Mission to Protect What Is Human in a World of Machines is a crucial read for anyone navigating our increasingly technology-driven world. Buolamwini’s work illuminates the complex relationship between information, technology, and society, offering a vital perspective on the biases embedded within artificial intelligence systems.
Buolamwini, founder of the Algorithmic Justice League (AJL), begins her journey with a personal experience. While researching at MITs Media Lab she discovers that the facial recognition software fails to recognize her dark-skinned face. This incident sparked an investigation into biases in AI algorithms, often stemming from skewed training data. She reveals how these biases can have far-reaching consequences, from biased hiring algorithms to flawed criminal justice assessments. Through her work with the AJL, she advocates for greater accountability and transparency in AI development.
Buolamwini explains complex technical concepts in a digestible way, making the book accessible to a broad audience, including students, alumni, and instructors across various disciplines. The issues she addresses affect everyone, regardless of their technical expertise. Instructors can leverage this book to facilitate discussions on critical thinking, ethical considerations in technology, and the societal impact of AI.
Looking ahead, Buolamwini’s work underscores the critical need for interdisciplinary collaboration in the development and AI regulation. Our university community, with its diverse expertise, has a unique opportunity to contribute to this crucial conversation. We must encourage critical thinking about the ethical implications of technology and empower students to become responsible creators and users of AI. As AI becomes further integrated into our lives, from personalized learning platforms to automated decision-making systems, prioritizing fairness, transparency, and accountability is essential.
Additional Resources & Readings
Evaluating Information: Artificial Intelligence (AI) Chatbots – ECPI University’s LibGuide created to help faculty, students, and alumni navigate the rapidly changing technological landscape.
First-Year and Common Reading Guide- Discussion questions and activities based on Buolamwini’s Unmasking AI.
Artificial Intelligence Ethics – Print and Ebook subject search in the library catalog.