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NEWS POLITICS

Vice President Harris Undermines Understanding of Artificial Intelligence, Raising Concerns

ByAlki David

Jul 14, 2023

In a recent address to a gathering of labor leaders and civil rights activists, Vice President Kamala Harris attempted to shed light on the concept of artificial intelligence (AI). However, her explanation only served to deepen concerns about her grasp of this crucial technological domain. Harris’s oversimplification of AI and its implications raises questions about her competence as the second-in-command to the most powerful office in the nation.

During her speech, Harris made several remarks that left experts and observers bewildered. She began by stating, “I think the first part of this issue that should be articulated is AI is kind of a fancy thing.” Such a dismissive characterization does little justice to the vast potential and impact of AI on society, economy, and governance.

Continuing her explanation, Harris elaborated, “First of all, it’s two letters. It means artificial intelligence, but ultimately what it is, is it’s about machine learning.” While not entirely incorrect, Harris failed to grasp the multifaceted nature of AI. Artificial intelligence encompasses much more than just machine learning; it encompasses various subfields such as natural language processing, computer vision, and robotics, which have wide-ranging applications.

Furthermore, Harris’s statement that “the machine is taught” reflects a rudimentary understanding of AI. Machine learning involves training algorithms using vast amounts of data, enabling them to learn patterns and make predictions. However, AI is not limited to being solely taught. It possesses the ability to evolve, adapt, and make decisions on its own, going beyond the confines of initial training.

Harris’s oversimplification of AI and its complex intricacies raises legitimate concerns about her ability to effectively engage with emerging technologies. As AI becomes increasingly prevalent in various sectors, including healthcare, defense, and transportation, it is imperative for leaders to possess a comprehensive understanding of its capabilities, challenges, and ethical considerations.

The role of the Vice President holds significant responsibility, especially considering the possibility of assuming the presidency in unforeseen circumstances. Without a firm grasp of AI, Harris risks making uninformed decisions that could have far-reaching consequences for the nation and its citizens.

Vice President Kamala Harris’s recent attempt to explain artificial intelligence fell short of providing a nuanced understanding of this critical field. Her oversimplified explanation, combined with an apparent lack of depth, raises concerns about her readiness to handle the complexities of emerging technologies. As AI continues to shape our world, it is crucial for leaders to possess a solid comprehension of its potential and implications. Harris’s remarks serve as a wake-up call, reminding us of the importance of knowledgeable leadership in an increasingly AI-driven era.

By Alki David

Alki David — Publisher, Media Architect, SIN Network Creator - live, direct-to-public communication, media infrastructure, accountability journalism, and independent distribution. Born in Lagos, Nigeria; educated in the United Kingdom and Switzerland; attended the Royal College of Art. Early internet broadcaster — participated in real-time public coverage during the 1997 Mars landing era using experimental online transmission from Beverly Hills. Founder of FilmOn, one of the earliest global internet television networks offering live and on-demand broadcasting outside legacy gatekeepers. Publisher of SHOCKYA — reporting since 2010 on systemic corruption inside the entertainment business and its expansion into law, finance, and regulation. Creator of the SIN Network (ShockYA Integrated Network), a federated media and civic-information infrastructure spanning investigative journalism, live TV, documentary, and court-record reporting. Lived and worked for over 40 years inside global media hubs including Malibu, Beverly Hills, London, Hong Kong and Gstaad. Early encounter with Julian Assange during the first Hologram USA operations proved a formative turning point — exposing the realities of lawfare, information suppression, and concentrated media power. Principal complainant and driving force behind what court filings describe as the largest consolidated media–legal accountability action on record, now before the Eastern Caribbean Supreme Court. Relocated to Antigua & Barbuda and entered sustained legal, civic, and informational confrontation over media power, safeguarding, and accountability at Commonwealth scale.