What is AI Framing?

AI framing refers to the way artificial intelligence (AI) is conceptualized, communicated, and understood within a particular context or narrative. It involves the use of language, metaphors, and perspectives to present AI in a certain light, which can influence public perception, policy decisions, and technological development. The way AI is framed can impact how people feel about its capabilities, risks, and societal implications.

There are several common frames used to discuss AI:

Technological Optimism: This frame emphasizes AI as a tool for human progress, focusing on the benefits, such as automation, innovation, and problem-solving in sectors like healthcare, transportation, and education.

Risk and Fear: This frame highlights concerns around AI, such as job displacement, privacy issues, bias in decision-making, or fears of superintelligent machines leading to dystopian futures.

Ethical and Moral Framing: This perspective focuses on the ethical considerations of AI, including questions about fairness, transparency, accountability, and the moral responsibilities of developers and users of AI systems.

Human-AI Collaboration: This frame presents AI as a partner to humans, augmenting human capabilities rather than replacing them. It’s often used in discussions about AI in the workplace or creative fields.

Economic Framing: Here, AI is discussed in terms of its impact on economic systems, labor markets, and productivity. It can emphasize the competitive advantage that AI gives businesses or nations.

In essence, AI framing shapes the narrative around how we interact with, develop, and regulate artificial intelligence.