Needs and artificial intelligence

Abstract

Throughout our history, we, Homo sapiens, have used technologies to better satisfy our needs . The relation between needs and technology is so fundamental that the US National Research Council defines the distinguishing characteristic of technology as its goal “to make modifications in the world [in order] to meet human needs” [1]. Artificial intelligence (AI) is one of the most promising emerging technologies of our time. Similar to other technologies, AI is expected by many “to meet [human] needs”. In this article, we reflect on the relationship between needs and AI, and call for the realization of needs-aware AI systems. We argue that re-thinking needs for , through , by , and with AI can be a very useful means towards the development of realistic approaches for sustainable H uman-aware, A ccountable, L awful, and E thical (HALE) AI systems. We discuss some of the most critical gaps, barriers, enablers, and drivers of co-creating future AI-based sociotechnical systems in which [human] needs are well considered and met. Finally, we provide an overview of potential challenges and considerations that should be carefully taken into account; and call for joint, immediate, and interdisciplinary efforts and collaborations to start on the path to needs-aware AI.