The relationship between science, technology and society during the Covid-19 pandemic
The case of Artificial Intelligence in Canada
Student names (alphabetical order): Jacob Guirguis, Nichita Hariton, Ragith Sabapathipillai, Omar Sahtout, Andy Phuong Quoc Vu
Supervisor: Gita Ghiasi
Course: ENGR-392-2204-RR
Abstract
Today, in the modern era, the development and implementation of technology are one of the best and most commonly used ways of solving problems. In recent months, the newly discovered coronavirus disease has rapidly spread, unexpectedly reaching the four corners of earth, resulting in the Covid-19 pandemic, putting excessive strain on all aspects of societies globally and disrupting people’s daily lives. As such, many technologies have been put in place to mitigate the effects of the pandemic. Artificial intelligence (AI) is one such technology which can impact the lives of all those affected by the disease and restore order in an otherwise chaotic reality. The following research paper analyses the topic of AI as a means to assess its potential benefit in serving as a helpful technology during the pandemic. Research was conducted by analysing the four poles of the Techno-Economic Network (TEN) framework, Science, Finance, Technology, and Market, and by identifying the main global and Canadian actors and their roles within the development of AI technology. Results show that the AI superpowers of the world are the United States and China with China holding the highest amount of publications on the topic and Canada contributing to 1.8% of worldwide publications. Throughout all countries, academic institutions are largely responsible for publishing with funding sponsors consisting mostly of governmental and corporate institutions. The pandemic has also put a heavy strain on businesses causing many companies across all industries to lay off employees and decrease salaries. In order for AI technology to benefit society, it was found that new technology cannot be developed without taking into consideration gender analytics. Moreover, funding sponsors should be responsible for promoting gender equality initiatives in order to ensure justice throughout society. Lastly, artificial intelligence development should be transparent and accessible, preventing bias and allowing it to further thrive.