Oxford researchers urge EU to make publicly backed AI improve wellbeing
Oxford Internet Institute researchers, led by Professor Sandra Wachter, argue that EU policy should make public support for AI deliver a “happiness dividend” for citizens. They say economic growth and reducing harm are not enough: people should also benefit in their wellbeing when public money and resources help build the AI industry.
The paper proposes that companies receiving public support predict how their technologies will affect happiness and be held accountable for those benefits. It highlights possible effects on human connection, skills, personal autonomy and access to green spaces, alongside pressure on energy, water and hardware supplies. The EU has allocated €20 billion for AI gigafactories, while €700 million is being channelled through GenAI4EU and the Digital Europe programme into generative AI and supercomputing projects.
- Oxford researchers propose measuring AI policy by its effect on happiness.
- They want publicly supported companies held accountable for wellbeing benefits.
- EU AI funding includes €20 billion for gigafactories.
AI Health Mental Health Research Science Technology
Read the full article at the source →
Originally published by The Register as “Happiness is the next AI KPI if Oxford boffins have their way”.