I TRENDS Security Politics and Artificial Intelligence: Key Trends and Debates

Abstract

This article delves into the academic discourse surrounding the security implications of artificial intelligence (AI). It highlights the lack of consensus on what AI truly encompasses, which poses challenges for regulating the technology. While some express concerns about the security risks of AI, there are proponents of ethical AI who believe in the possibility of programming the technology to operate ethically, and supporters of AI for Good (or AI for Social Good) who see potential for AI to address sustainable development challenges. Scholars agree that AI will have a significant impact on global security, but they disagree on the specific mechanisms and dimensions of this impact. Some focus on changes in the balance of power and the effectiveness of autonomous weapons, while others highlight the tactical advantages, defensive and offensive capabilities, and even national differences in AI development and deployment. Overall, the article concludes that more critical studies are needed to explore how AI is already affecting security in a broad sense.