'Social Reform' Discusses AI's Impact and Challenges in Society and Labor Market

The Al-Isalah Social Association hosted its second cultural forum, titled “Artificial Intelligence and the Information Revolution,” with the participation of various experts and enthusiasts interested in technological developments. The event aimed to discuss the impact of artificial intelligence on society and the labor market, the importance of data in developing its applications, and the ethical and epistemological challenges associated with its use.

Participants emphasized that the rapid expansion in the use of artificial intelligence technologies necessitates enhancing public awareness of their capabilities and limitations, as well as preparing for the transformations occurring in work, education, and knowledge production. They stressed the importance of adhering to ethical guidelines, protecting personal data, and reviewing the outputs of these technologies before relying on them.

Abdulrahman Al-Shatti, Director of Public Relations and Media at the Association, stated that digital transformations raise new questions regarding the relationship between humans and knowledge/information, amid the widespread dissemination of artificial intelligence tools and growing investments in their development.

He clarified that the forum aligns with the Association’s interest in issues affecting individuals and society, and its commitment to fostering dialogue on technological and epistemological developments and ways to harness them for the benefit of society.

For his part, AI expert Engineer Mohammed Al-Ayoub noted that current technological advancements represent an extension of a long history in communication and information transfer, pointing out that the origins of artificial intelligence date back to the 1950s before passing through various stages leading to the current boom.

Al-Ayoub affirmed that the quality and accuracy of data are fundamental factors in the efficiency of AI systems and the reliability of their results. He called for establishing ethical standards for using these technologies and avoiding sharing personal and sensitive information without understanding platform policies and data handling mechanisms.

He stressed the importance of learning how to formulate clear prompts and instructions to achieve more accurate and effective results, while emphasizing the need to review and verify outputs and not to treat them as final facts.

For his part, Engineer Majid Al-Zubaidi confirmed that AI tools contribute to saving time and effort, boosting productivity, and improving performance across various fields. He explained that maximizing their benefits depends on the quality of information and the context provided by the user.

He noted that relying on these tools for preparing reports and making decisions requires reviewing results and verifying their accuracy. He pointed out that while technological developments may affect certain jobs and professions, they simultaneously open up new opportunities that require continuous learning and acquiring digital skills.

Al-Zubaidi called for utilizing training programs and selecting tools appropriate to the nature of work and specialization. He warned against over-reliance on AI, which could impact critical thinking and analytical skills, and emphasized the importance of protecting privacy and taking responsibility for verifying information.

For his part, Assistant Professor Mishaari Al-Dilimi from the College of Sharia and Islamic Studies at Kuwait University stressed the need to achieve balance in using artificial intelligence, leveraging its potential without abandoning personal thinking and human expertise.

He clarified that these technologies help save time and effort and improve performance, while also enabling small businesses to develop and expand their capabilities when utilized thoughtfully.

Al-Dilimi warned against complete reliance on AI outputs, urging that they be treated as supportive tools requiring knowledge, analysis, and specialized review. He advised referring to experts in matters requiring scientific or professional expertise.

The discussions concluded that effectively harnessing artificial intelligence goes beyond merely possessing its tools; it requires awareness of how to use them, the ability to distinguish between accurate information and outputs that need verification, and adherence to ethical and professional standards. Participants also emphasized the importance of continuous training and keeping pace with technological advancements, as well as preparing individuals for potential changes in the labor market, thereby enhancing the use of artificial intelligence in development, creativity, and production.