In her groundbreaking new book, "Unmasking AI: My Mission to Protect What Is Human in a World of Machines," Dr. Joy Buolamwini, a leading voice in the realm of artificial intelligence ethics, offers a profound exploration of AI’s current trajectory and its widespread implications on society. A national bestseller, the book is hailed as a must-read by Fortune magazine, which dubbed Buolamwini “the conscience of the AI revolution.”
Dr. Buolamwini, founder of the Algorithmic Justice League, has long been recognized for her pioneering research that exposes the racial and gender biases embedded within AI technologies. Her journey into the world of AI began in her high school years in Memphis and continued through her time as a Fulbright fellow in Zambia, where she developed mobile apps. It was during her tenure at MIT's "Future Factory" that her significant contributions to uncovering AI's coded prejudices gained her global acclaim.
In "Unmasking AI," Dr. Buolamwini delves deep into the origins and evolution of artificial intelligence, revealing how modern advancements that seemed to appear overnight have been decades in the making. The book goes beyond sensational headlines about AI threats, focusing instead on the systemic issues within tech industries that perpetuate discrimination and exclusion.
The term “coded gaze,” as coined by Buolamwini, refers to the inherent encoded biases in tech products that perpetuate a cycle of racial and gender discrimination. By demonstrating how these biases render vast swathes of humanity vulnerable—particularly those who are “excoded,” or excluded by the narrow scopes of AI models—Buolamwini underscores the urgent need for systemic change within the field.
"Unmasking AI" is not just a critique but a call to action. Buolamwini encourages both AI experts and the general public to advocate for algorithmic justice, emphasizing that AI development should be inclusive, ensuring it serves all of humanity, not just the privileged few. Darren Walker, president of the Ford Foundation, recommends it as "the one book about AI you should read," praising Buolamwini's efforts to bring "irresponsible, profit-hungry tech giants to their knees."
Dr. Buolamwini's advocacy and research have not only shifted public discourse but have also made tangible impacts on policy and technology development. Her work has earned her numerous accolades, including the Rhodes Scholarship and the inaugural Morals & Machines Prize. She continues to influence global policy on AI through her advisory roles and public speaking, while her research has been featured in the Emmy-nominated documentary "Coded Bias."
"Unmasking AI" also features a foreword by Dr. Buolamwini, providing personal insights into her motivations and the challenges she faced in her career. As an acclaimed writer featured in publications like Time and The New York Times, and a creative mind known as the "Poet of Code," she uses her unique voice to make complex technological issues accessible and engaging.
As AI continues to permeate every aspect of our lives, "Unmasking AI" serves as a crucial guide to understanding and navigating the ethical landscape of modern technology. It is a pivotal read for anyone interested in the intersection of technology, society, and justice. Dr. Joy Buolamwini’s work is a beacon of hope for a more equitable technological future, and her latest book is a testament to the power of perseverance and the importance of safeguarding human dignity in a digital age.