AI could crack unsolvable problems — and humans won't be able to understand the results
In recent years, artificial intelligence (AI) has emerged as a pivotal force in scientific exploration, celebrated for its potential to significantly expedite the progress of research. Many, including the Nobel Prize laureates, view AI as a tool capable of revolutionizing scientific discovery. However, there are complex challenges and risks associated with this rapid integration of AI into scientific practice. The benefits of AI lie in its ability to enhance efficiency, potentially leading to breakthroughs at reduced costs and shorter timelines. Yet, this optimism is shadowed by concerns that the swift adoption of AI might alienate the public, making scientific findings inaccessible or difficult for laypeople to trust and understand. Three major illusions surround AI usage in research. Firstly, the "illusion of explanatory depth" suggests that even if an AI system like AlphaFold predicts phenomena remarkably well, it may still fall short in providing a fundamental understanding of the mechanisms involved. Secondly, the "illusion of exploratory breadth" implies that while researchers might seem to be exploring all hypotheses, AI often restricts them to testable, yet limited, options. Lastly, the "illusion of objectivity" highlights the prevalent misconception that AI systems are unbiased when they actually reflect the biases inherent in their datasets and development. The push for AI-driven science also poses ethical questions, like whether such advancements may result in an overwhelming production of research that could burden the peer-review system with low-value entries. Moreover, the environmental impact of AI's computational needs is a growing concern, raising questions about sustainability. As AI continues to shape the scientific landscape, it is imperative that its integration is guided by a renewed social contract that reflects societal values and addresses both ethical and practical dimensions, ensuring that the science we pursue remains relevant, accessible, and beneficial to all.