Google retracts promise not to use AI for weapons or surveillance prompting employee backlash: Are we the baddies?

Google employees are reportedly up in arms over management’s decision to walk back a promise not to use artificial intelligence technology to develop weaponry and surveillance tools.The search giant’s decision to revise its AI ethical guidelines, announced on Tuesday, marks a significant departure from the company’s earlier commitment to abstain from AI applications that could cause harm or be used for military purposes.The updated guidelines no longer include a prior commitment to avoiding AI for weapons, surveillance, or other technologies that “cause or are likely to cause overall harm.”Google did not explicitly acknowledge the removal of its AI weaponry ban in its official communications.The Post has sought comment from Google.Google employees expressed their concern about the new policy through posts on the company’s internal message board, Memegen.One widely shared meme depicted Google CEO Sundar Pichai searching “how to become a weapons contractor” on Google, according to Business Insider.Another referenced a popular comedy sketch featuring an actor dressed as a Nazi soldier, captioned: “Google lifts a ban on using its AI for weapons and surveillance.

Are we the baddies?”The “Are we the baddies?” meme comes from a British comedy sketch where two Nazi officers realize their skull-emblazoned uniforms might mean they’re the villains.It’s used humorously to depict moments of ethical self-reflection.A third meme featured Sheldon from “The Big Bang Theory” reacting to reports of Google’s increasing collaboration with defense agencies, exclaiming, “Oh, that’s why.” Subscribe to our daily Business Report newsletter! Please provide a valid email address.By clicking above you agree to the Terms of Use and Privacy Policy.

Never miss a story.While some employees voiced concerns, others within the company may support a more active role in defense technology,...