Data for Good
AAAS Science and Technology Policy Fellows' Affinity Group
The Problem
The use of data and algorithms is reshaping our world at an accelerating pace. These tools offer great opportunities but also pose critical challenges and risks, many of which we are only beginning to understand and address. The decreasing cost of computing provides a natural incentive to drive technological development. However, the incentives to drive that development in responsible directions are far fewer and weaker. Even algorithms created with good intentions can have unpredictable and devastating consequences. Given computing's unique power to shape society, we believe special attention must be given to ensure that it grows without malignancy and for the benefit of society.
Our Approach
We seek to promote positive outcomes in the age of artificial intelligence. We do this by exploring and promoting alignments between commercial and humanitarian applications of data science with risk mitigation efforts (e.g. algorithmic bias detection, AI safety). In doing this, we hope to create commercial buy-in to risk mitigation, inform policy and governance, and help humanitarian efforts achieve their goals more effectively.
Who We Are
As AAAS Science and Technology Policy Fellows, we work directly in both the technical and policy arenas that shape how technology is implemented. Many Fellows are reflecting on what problems to work on next in their careers, and in what capacity; our group provides value for the Fellows by illuminating rewarding and high-impact career areas. We also provide value to the problem space by directly mobilizing talented people to work on Data for Good issues.