"Dad, why do adults say AI is dangerous?" Many children ask their parents this question when they hear about artificial intelligence (AI). Adults are aware of the opportunities that AI offers, but also of the risks associated with it. In this article, I would like to explain to parents why some adults warn against AI, what issues they are concerned about and how children and young people can be guided in an age-appropriate way.

Dad, why do adults say AI is dangerous? - Behind the worries

Parents often encounter fears and uncertainties among adults about artificial intelligence. Adults recognise that AI can make our lives easier, but they also know that AI is not free from errors or biases. One major concern relates to so-called "biases" - i.e. biased, prejudiced decisions made by AI systems. If, for example, an AI systematically penalises certain genders or groups of origin when selecting personnel, this can create real problems and reinforce social inequalities[1][2][3].

The data used to "train" AI often reflects social prejudices. This means that AI can reflect the dark sides of our society - without intention, but with major consequences. Adults are concerned about fairness, data protection and the impact of AI on jobs and social justice.

BEST PRACTICE for parents and teachers Maria, mum of two, reports: "My son asked me at home: 'Dad, why do adults say AI is dangerous? I explained to him that AI can do a lot, but it also makes mistakes. This is how I show him that technology is always associated with responsibility."

Why is AI perceived as dangerous?

Many parents ask themselves what the real risks of AI are. Unfortunately, everyday life often shows that AI systems are not always neutral. If an AI reproduces rare or historical discrimination when granting credit, this can put the people affected at a disadvantage. In addition, the protection of privacy is a major issue, as AI systems collect a lot of data and it is not always clear how it is used[2][3].

Ethical questions are also present. How does an AI make decisions when it is used to hire or evaluate people? There is often a lack of transparency and human control here - which causes uncertainty among adults. Last but not least, many fear the loss of control over smart systems or the impact on the labour market.

BEST PRACTICE for parents and teachers Thomas, father of a daughter, says: "I often answer my daughter honestly: 'AI can help us, but it can also cause problems. That's why we need to understand it and use it properly. That way, she learns that technology also raises questions."

How can parents answer the question "Dad, why do adults say AI is dangerous?"?

The best way is openness. Explain to children in simple terms that AI are tools that support people. At the same time, show them that technology also comes with responsibility and rules. In this way, children can build trust without developing fears.

Examples from everyday life help: If a language assistant does not understand questions correctly or gives incorrect answers, children learn that AIs also make mistakes. This develops understanding and a critical attitude.

Many parents report that they talk about AI with their children on the Internet or at workshops. We particularly recommend the training of kikidz.orgwhich provides important age-appropriate impulses on how to understand and reflect on AI. The training supports parents and teachers in accompanying children safely when dealing with AI.

BEST PRACTICE for parents and teachers Julia, mum, experiences: "After the kikidz workshop, I was able to explain to my son professionally why some people take a critical view of AI. That made our conversations about it much easier."

Dad, why do adults say AI is dangerous? - a question that makes you think

When children ask this question, it opens up an important opportunity for parents to talk about the opportunities and challenges of AI. Adults see artificial intelligence not only as a technical innovation, but also as a social responsibility. They want to equip children with knowledge and reduce fears.

By providing honest but understandable answers, parents can give impulses on how to use AI safely and thoughtfully in everyday life. After all, AI is complex and is changing the world, but with good support, this development can be shaped together.

BEST PRACTICE for parents and teachers Michael, father of three: "We explain at home that AI helps us, but we also need to be aware of the problems. This teaches my children that technology is not just a gimmick, but also a responsibility."

My analysis

The question "Dad, why do adults say AI is dangerous?" illustrates the tension between enthusiasm and scepticism towards artificial intelligence. Adults recognise the opportunities, but also the challenges posed by bias, data protection and ethical issues. Parents should address these issues openly and empower children with knowledge and critical thinking when dealing with AI.

Training as with kikidz.org offer valuable support for this. This is the only way we can work together to promote the responsible use of AI and reduce fears.

Further links from the text above:

AI as a mirror of our society: stereotypes and limits
What is AI bias? Causes, effects and strategies to avoid it
Artificial intelligence and discrimination - what you need to know
Bias in artificial intelligence: risks and solutions
Discriminated against by the algorithm - Hans Böckler Foundation
Discriminated against by AI? When machines have prejudices

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