Biggest obstacle to AI is attitudes

Artificial intelligence (AI) has the potential to improve people's everyday lives and well-being. But to fully benefit from it, more knowledge is needed. That's why IT&Telecom companies launched the think tank THINK AI Sweden at the beginning of the year.

Lars Lundberg, an expert in industrial policy with responsibility for welfare technology, is in charge of the forge. The idea is for academia, business and the public sector to come together to discuss how Sweden can become a leader in AI.

- A clear picture of the future is a must to navigate correctly and to be able to solve many of the challenges that exist in society with the help of AI," says Lars Lundberg.

Many in favor of AI

AI can be explained by the fact that large amounts of information are filtered via algorithms to make everyday life easier. And Swedes are generally positive about AI. This is shown by the survey Swedes and robots, which was conducted by Insight Intelligence, CGI, IBM, Postnord and Scream Mediebyrå in collaboration with the government research institute RISE.

- Research also shows that most people are positive about AI as a phenomenon in various sectors. However, healthcare is not as positive. I don't know why, but one explanation may be the issue of privacy," says Lars Lundberg.

Integrity must be protected

In recent years, privacy issues have also come to the fore, not least in relation to the handling of personal data. Another concern that has been raised is the willingness of undemocratic countries to monitor their citizens.

- There are parts of AI that are not pleasant. One of these is facial recognition linked to non-democracies. It's unpleasant, but AI in itself cannot be dangerous," says Lars Lundberg.

Provides social benefits

The big win with AI is the societal benefit it generates. By installing sensor systems on trains, instead of using measuring wagons, the Swedish Transport Administration can check the condition of the railways more effectively. But the benefits can be found in all parts of society.

- For example, Norrtälje municipality offers GPS trackers to people with dementia. It is then linked to a relative and in turn to the home care service. This creates a sense of security for everyone. The biggest obstacle to AI is not the technology. In many cases, it's more about attitudes," says Lars Lundberg and continues:

- "It should be clear that the digitization of nations requires competent leadership," says Lars Lundberg.