Groundbreaking insights in AI legislation
UMaine’s AI Initiative marks a pivotal year in artificial intelligence ethics, advancing responsible development and usage.
In a landmark year for artificial intelligence (AI) ethics, the University of Maine’s AI Initiative made novel contributions to conversations regarding the responsible development and use of AI technologies.
Manuel Wörsdörfer, assistant professor of management and computing ethics at UMaine, analyzed the world’s first major legislative attempt by a government entity to regulate AI in a paper published by the journal AI and Ethics. In “The E.U.’s Artificial Intelligence Act: An Ordoliberal Assessment,” Wörsdörfer delved into the complexities of the European Union’s Artificial Intelligence Act (AIA). The research focused on socio-political implications of emerging generative AI, including large-language models and chatbots, which became increasingly influential in 2023.
The AIA is examined through the lens of the ordoliberalism 2.0—which was previously underrepresented in scholarly discourse—offers a unique critique of the AIA, assessing both its strengths and limitations from an ordoliberal standpoint.
Wörsdörfer’s paper also suggests concrete reform measures to enhance the AIA. These recommendations aim to ensure the act can effectively safeguard against potential negative impacts of AI technologies, while fostering positive contributions to society.
UMaine’s AI Initiative, through this publication, demonstrates its role as a leader in the AI-related research field. The university continuously fosters interdisciplinary research and dialogue, bridging gaps between technology and ethical governance. As AI evolves, UMaine remains steadfast to its commitment to exploring and addressing the ethical, social, and political challenges that develop as a consequence of this technology.
Wörsdörfer’s publication highlights the dedication of UMaine’s AI Initiative to shaping a future where AI is developed and used responsibly, benefiting society as a whole. Through such advancements, UMaine Research and the AI Initiative will continue to steer the global conversation on AI toward a more ethical and inclusive future.