Rethinking artificial intelligence: Prioritizing justice, well-being, and sustainability

Entangled AI seeks to support a future where technology aligns with broader human and ecological objectives. It prioritizes ethical decision-making by embedding human values such as equity, justice, and inclusivity into AI systems. Moreover, it aspires to advance environmental stewardship by monitoring ecological impacts and promoting sustainable practices, ensuring that technological progress does not come at the expense of the planet's well-being.

Artificial intelligence is a powerful force shaping human societies and influencing the planet’s future. But how can AI serve humanity in ways that prioritize social justice, well-being, and ecological sustainability? In their groundbreaking study, 'Entangled AI: Artificial Intelligence That Serves the Future,' published in AI & Society (2024), Alexandra Köves, Katalin Feher, Lilla Vicsek, and Máté Fischer introduce the concept of 'entangled AI.' This visionary framework redefines AI as an interconnected system that aligns technological innovation with the needs of people, society, and the environment.

The concept of entangled AI draws inspiration from quantum physics, where interconnected elements influence one another. Similarly, entangled AI recognizes that technology is deeply integrated into human, societal, and ecological systems, rather than existing as an isolated entity. This framework emphasizes the role of AI in mirroring human ethical values while contributing to a balance between societal advancement and environmental sustainability. Unlike conventional narratives that portray AI as a neutral tool or a potential existential threat, entangled AI envisions technology as a collective enabler. Its goal is to address challenges such as inequality, resource management, and environmental degradation, fostering a harmonious coexistence between humanity and nature.

Entangled AI seeks to support a future where technology aligns with broader human and ecological objectives. It prioritizes ethical decision-making by embedding human values such as equity, justice, and inclusivity into AI systems. Moreover, it aspires to advance environmental stewardship by monitoring ecological impacts and promoting sustainable practices, ensuring that technological progress does not come at the expense of the planet's well-being. Social harmony is another critical focus, with entangled AI fostering environments that enhance human autonomy, community trust, and collaborative decision-making. By integrating these aims, entangled AI offers a holistic vision of technology that serves individual, societal, and ecological needs.

Preconditions for Entangled AI

Achieving entangled AI requires several foundational prerequisites. First, AI systems must operate within ecological limits, respecting the planet’s regenerative capacities and encouraging resource-conscious behaviors. Transparency is equally vital, ensuring that the development and deployment of AI are open and inclusive, allowing communities to understand and influence its trajectory. Decentralization is another key factor; by avoiding centralized control, AI can empower communities and enhance system resilience, reducing the risk of inequities or dependencies. Additionally, the value of both human and technological contributions must be recognized, moving away from profit-driven models to prioritize societal well-being. These preconditions establish a framework for designing AI systems that are collaborative, sustainable, and equitable.

A methodology rooted in backcasting

The researchers employed backcasting, a forward-thinking methodology that starts by envisioning an ideal future and then works backward to determine the steps needed to achieve it. Unlike forecasting, which extrapolates from current trends, backcasting encourages creative exploration of alternative futures. In this study, a panel of AI experts used backcasting to create a systems map that visualizes the interconnections between AI, humanity, and nature. This map revealed how key factors such as social justice, ecological sustainability, and technological accessibility are interdependent. By focusing on these relationships, the researchers developed actionable strategies to guide the development of entangled AI, offering a clear path to realizing its potential.

Key policy implications and future vision

The concept of entangled AI carries important implications for policymakers and stakeholders. First, it underscores the need for interdisciplinary collaboration, integrating perspectives from technology, sociology, and environmental science to address the multifaceted challenges of AI. Participatory governance is also crucial, ensuring that diverse stakeholders are involved in decision-making processes so that AI development reflects the values and needs of various communities. Proactive regulation is another essential aspect, as demonstrated by frameworks like the EU’s AI Act and the U.S. Executive Order on AI. These policies balance innovation with ethical considerations, ensuring trust and safety in AI applications. By adopting these approaches, policymakers can steer AI development toward outcomes that benefit society and the planet.

Entangled AI challenges deterministic views of technology, positioning AI as a co-creator of a harmonious future rather than a neutral tool or existential threat. This vision places human agency at the center, empowering individuals and communities to shape AI in ways that reflect shared values and collective goals. It emphasizes the potential of AI to address global challenges such as overconsumption and inequality while promoting ecological resilience. The study highlights opportunities for further research, including the design of decentralized governance systems, the integration of ecological metrics into AI frameworks, and the development of AI solutions tailored to sustainability. These insights underscore the importance of collaboration and innovation in achieving a sustainable AI future.