The IELTS Reading section tests your ability to understand detailed texts and evaluate complex arguments. A common theme in past exams has been technology and ethics, particularly concerns surrounding artificial intelligence (AI) in decision-making processes. This topic is highly relevant today as AI increasingly impacts our lives, raising essential questions about morality, fairness, and accountability.
In this article, we will walk you through a detailed practice reading task on the ethical concerns of AI in decision-making processes. This reading task will help you hone the reading skills necessary to score well in the IELTS exam.
Practice Reading Task: Ethical Concerns in AI Decision-Making
Passage
The Ethical Dilemmas of AI in Decision-Making Processes
Artificial intelligence has become a cornerstone of modern technology, driving advancements in various fields such as healthcare, law enforcement, and finance. While AI’s capability to process vast amounts of data and make predictions has been seen as a boon, it raises significant ethical concerns that cannot be overlooked.
One primary concern is bias. AI systems are trained on data sets, and these data sets can contain historical biases. If an AI system is trained on biased data, it can perpetuate and even exacerbate these biases. For instance, an AI employed in the hiring process might favor candidates of a specific gender or ethnicity, simply because the training data reflects historical biases in hiring practices. Such biases raise questions about fairness and equality.
Another critical issue is the lack of transparency. AI algorithms can be incredibly complex, and even their developers might not fully understand how they reach specific decisions. This “black box” phenomenon poses a serious challenge to accountability. If an AI system makes a harmful or unethical decision, it becomes difficult to determine responsibility. This lack of transparency is especially problematic in sectors like healthcare and criminal justice, where decisions can significantly impact human lives.
Additionally, there is the matter of privacy. AI systems often require vast amounts of personal data to function effectively. This data collection raises privacy concerns, especially when sensitive information is involved. For instance, AI systems used in healthcare might need access to detailed medical histories, but misuse or unauthorized access to such data can lead to severe privacy breaches.
Lastly, there is the problem of employment displacement. AI-driven automation threatens to replace human workers in various industries, leading to significant economic and social ramifications. While some argue that AI will create new job opportunities, the transition can be painful for many, especially those whose skills become redundant.
In conclusion, while AI offers promising advancements, the ethical dilemmas it presents must be addressed to ensure its beneficial integration into society. Bias, lack of transparency, privacy concerns, and employment displacement are critical issues that need careful consideration and regulation.
Questions
1. Multiple Choice
-
What is one primary ethical concern associated with AI in decision-making?
- A. Efficiency
- B. Comfort
- C. Bias
- D. Accuracy
-
Why is the “black box” phenomenon problematic?
- A. It increases data processing speed.
- B. It makes accountability difficult.
- C. It reduces the complexity of algorithms.
- D. It ensures transparency.
2. Identifying Information (True/False/Not Given)
-
AI systems are only used in the healthcare industry.
- True
- False
- Not Given
-
Employment displacement is seen as an economic benefit by all experts.
- True
- False
- Not Given
3. Matching Headings
Match the following headings with the correct paragraphs from the passage:
- A. Privacy Concerns
- B. Bias in Training Data
- C. Ethical Accountability
- D. Impact on Employment
Answer Key
-
Multiple Choice
- 1. Answer: C. Bias
- 2. Answer: B. It makes accountability difficult.
-
Identifying Information
- 3. Answer: False
- 4. Answer: False
-
Matching Headings
- 5. Answer: Paragraph 4
- 6. Answer: Paragraph 2
- 7. Answer: Paragraph 3
- 8. Answer: Paragraph 5
Common Mistakes
- Understanding Bias: Students often misinterpret the concept of bias in AI. It is crucial to understand that bias in AI stems from the data it is trained on, not from the AI itself.
- Transparency Issues: Many students fail to grasp the complexity and the accountability issues raised by the “black box” phenomenon in AI.
- Privacy Concerns: Recognize that privacy issues in AI are primarily about data collection and misuse, not about the technology itself.
- Employment Displacement: Some confuse the potential job creation aspect with the immediate displacement issues posed by AI.
Vocabulary
- **Bias (noun) /baɪəs/: A tendency to favor one thing over another, often unfairly.
- **Transparency (noun) /trænˈspærənsi/: Openness and clarity regarding how decisions are made.
- **Privacy (noun) /ˈpraɪvəsi/: The right to keep personal matters and relationships secret.
- **Displacement (noun) /dɪsˈpleɪsmənt/: The moving of something from its place or position, often referring to job displacement in this context.
Grammar
- Relative Clauses: “An AI system that is trained on biased data can perpetuate these biases.” Here, “that is trained on biased data” is a defining relative clause.
- Modal Verbs: “AI systems can be incredibly complex.” In this sentence, “can” is used to express possibility.
Conclusion
Practising with passages on trending topics not only prepares you for the IELTS exam but also keeps you informed about the world. Remember to focus on understanding the main ideas, identifying key information, and recognizing different question types. With diligent practice, you’ll be well on your way to achieving a high score in the IELTS Reading section.
Advice for High IELTS Reading Score
- Consistent Practice: Regularly read various materials on different topics to enhance your comprehension skills.
- Identify Keywords: Learn to quickly identify and understand keywords and their synonyms in the questions and the text.
- Expand Vocabulary: A broad vocabulary will help you understand complex texts and nuances in meaning.
- Time Management: Practice under timed conditions to improve your speed and efficiency.
- Review Mistakes: Analyze your errors to understand where you went wrong and how you can improve.
By focusing on these strategies, you will enhance your Reading skills, leading to better performance in the IELTS exam.