Kirke Maar: why and how we plan to start the Estonia.ai program
Kirke Maar discusses the importance of developing an AI program in Estonia to address societal changes and technological advancements.
In her article, Kirke Maar emphasizes the transformative potential of artificial intelligence (AI) not only on technology but also on business, education, work, and societal relationships. She draws parallels between the current moment in AI development and the significant societal shifts seen over 25 years ago, underscoring the necessity for open discussions about the formation and responsibilities of Estonia's AI council. Maar highlights that AI is one of the most crucial technologies of recent decades, with implications that extend beyond mere technical aspects, impacting the entire fabric of society.
Furthermore, she notes that the evolution of AI is not solely a technological issue but a deeply societal one that touches all areas of life. The strength of a (digital) society lies in its ability to engage in open and substantive discussions, which is a key component of the Estonia.ai initiative. Rather than being a rigid, long-term strategy, the Estonia.ai program aims to foster a flexible approach that encourages rapid learning and adaptation to the fast-evolving landscape of artificial intelligence.
The initiative seeks to create a framework for collaboration and discussion, enabling stakeholders to navigate the complexities of integrating AI into various sectors effectively. As Karen K Burns has initiated public discussions on the structure and tasks of the council, it becomes vital for all members of society to participate in this dialogue, ensuring that the development of AI in Estonia aligns with both technological advancement and societal needs.