‍Q1. (a) The application of Artificial Intelligence as a dependable source of input for administrative rational decision-making is a debatable issue. Critically examine the statement from an ethical point of view.

Approach

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Introduction

The use of AI in administrative decision-making is gaining momentum due to its potential to enhance efficiency and objectivity. However, it raises ethical concerns around fairness, accountability, transparency, and privacy, especially in sensitive governance matters.

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Body

‍AI in Administrative Decision-Making:

  • Enhanced Efficiency: AI can process large amounts of data quickly, making administrative tasks faster and more efficient. For Example, AI chatbots used by governments, such as India's MyGov Corona Helpdesk, help streamline public inquiries, reducing the workload on human staff.
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  • Objective, Data-Driven Decisions: AI can analyze data without emotional bias, potentially leading to more rational and evidence-based decisions.
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  • Predictive Analytics for Better Planning: AI’s predictive capabilities assist governments in identifying future trends and making proactive decisions. For Example, AI-driven climate models are being used for disaster management and urban planning, predicting floods and aiding in evacuation plans, such as in Japan.

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Ethical Concerns in AI-based Decision-Making:

  • Bias and Discrimination: AI systems can perpetuate societal biases present in the data used to train them. For instance, In 2019, Amazon scrapped an AI hiring tool that was found to be biased against women.
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  • Transparency and Accountability: Many AI systems function as "black boxes," making it difficult to understand how decisions are made. For example,  AI-driven facial recognition systems, like those used in law enforcement, often lack transparency, raising concerns about wrongful identification and accountability.
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  • ‍Privacy and Data Security: AI relies heavily on personal data, raising concerns about breaches and misuse. For example, The use of AI for contact tracing during the COVID-19 pandemic sparked debates on privacy, as governments collected sensitive health data. sparked debates on privacy, as governments collected sensitive health data.
  • Inequality and Digital Divide: Unequal access to AI technology can worsen disparities. For instance, Rural or underdeveloped areas might not have the resources to leverage AI in public services, exacerbating the urban-rural divide in access to government benefits.

Conclusion

AI can undoubtedly enhance administrative decision-making, but its ethical challenges must be addressed. Striking a balance between leveraging AI for efficiency and ensuring fairness, transparency, and accountability is crucial to prevent harm and build public trust in these systems.

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