Canadians Call for Ethical AI Development, Endorses Regulations

As digital advancements continue to shape our future, Artificial Intelligence (AI) has become a point of discussion for its potential impact on society. A recent study spearheaded by TELUS, a prominent Canadian technology firm, has taken a closer look at public opinion on this matter. The TELUS AI report titled The power of perspectives in Canada outlines the results of a survey that captured the sentiments of roughly 5,000 Canadians, featuring a wide range of demographics, including Indigenous Peoples, racialized groups, Black women, older individuals, newcomers to the country, the youth, persons with disabilities, and the LGBTQ2S+ community.

Canadian Perspectives on AI

The study's findings are clear and compelling. Canadians have expressed a strong inclination towards the ethical development of AI technologies. In specific numbers, over 90% of participants agreed that the development of AI should align with ethical guidelines. Furthermore, 78% of respondents are in support of regulating AI use in Canada, indicating a desire for oversight and accountability in its application.

Recognizing Bias and Promoting Diversity in AI

One worrisome statistic emerged from the study, revealing that 42% of respondents from racialized groups feel that current AI systems exhibit bias against them and their peers. The younger participants, particularly those between the ages of 12-17, foresee a future where they may need to address and rectify AI-related challenges left by prior generations. This perspective underscores the necessity for applied consideration towards inclusivity and the mitigation of bias in the evolution of AI.

TELUS, in its continuous effort towards responsible AI, was the inaugural telecom entity in Canada to adopt a voluntary code for generative AI and introduced the TELUS Wise Responsible AI online workshop, designed to educate teenagers about AI's landscape and boundaries in partnership with CIFAR. The company has also achieved ISO Privacy by Design certification for its Data for Good program, reinforcing its commitment to privacy and trust.

To promote transparency and engage a broader public in discourse, TELUS invites individuals to access their AI research report and participate in shaping the AI debate at telus.com/ResponsibleAI.

AI, ethics, regulation