Designed to examine human development, ecological systems theory when applied to AI reveals the interconnected layers that guide its growth — and its need for governance.
Credit: Ron Guerrier / Save the Children
Artificial intelligence (AI) is no longer the stuff of science fiction; it’s here, influencing everything from healthcare to hiring practices. Tools like ChatGPT have democratized access to AI, allowing individuals and organizations to harness its potential in ways previously unimaginable.
But as with any transformative technology, AI comes with risks — chief among them, the perpetuation of biases and systemic inequities. To guide AI’s development responsibly, we need to think of it not just as a tool, but as a growing child — shaped by its environment, for better or worse.
This analogy might seem odd, but it’s instructive. AI, like a child, learns from those around it. Developers, engineers, policymakers, and even end-users all contribute to its growth. To ensure AI evolves into …