The Implications of Artificial Intelligence for Human Rights: An IELTS Reading Practice

The Reading section of the IELTS exam is designed to assess a candidate’s ability to understand and interpret written texts. The texts used in the exam can be on a variety of topics, including but not limited to, technology, global issues, and social phenomena. One particularly relevant topic today concerns the implications of artificial intelligence (AI) for human rights. Given the growing importance of AI in many aspects of society, this subject has seen increased attention in both media and academic discussions, making it a potentially significant topic for IELTS Reading.

In this article, we’ll cover a practice Reading test with a full-length article, question set, answer keys, and detailed explanations. Moreover, considering the significance and timely relevance of the topic, this piece serves as an excellent preview of what might appear in future IELTS exams.

Reading Passage

The Implications of Artificial Intelligence for Human Rights

Artificial Intelligence (AI) is increasingly becoming an integral component of modern society, being utilized in various sectors like healthcare, finance, legal systems, and even policing. While AI offers substantial benefits, its implications for human rights cannot be overlooked. This article will explore the potential positive and negative impacts of AI on human rights and what measures can be taken to ensure its ethical use.

Positive Impacts of AI on Human Rights

AI has shown promise in enhancing the protection of human rights. For example, AI can be used for predictive policing, which aims to prevent crimes before they occur. This is achieved through the analysis of vast amounts of data to identify high-risk areas and times for criminal activities. In the healthcare sector, AI technologies can assist in diagnosing diseases accurately and swiftly, aiding in effective treatments and potentially saving lives.

Moreover, AI can offer significant advantages in the realm of accessibility. AI-driven applications can provide real-time transcription and translation services, making information more accessible to individuals with disabilities and those who speak different languages. These innovations can help bridge gaps in education and employment opportunities.

AI and Human Rights

Negative Impacts of AI on Human Rights

However, the rapid adoption of AI technologies also raises several concerns about human rights violations. One of the primary issues is the potential for bias in AI algorithms. These algorithms are trained on data sets that may contain inherent biases, which can then be perpetuated and amplified when the AI systems are deployed. This can lead to unfair treatment in areas such as hiring, lending, and law enforcement.

Another significant concern is the impact of AI on privacy. AI systems often require vast amounts of personal data to function effectively. This data collection can pose risks to individuals’ privacy, especially if the data is misused or inadequately protected. For instance, facial recognition technology, widely used for surveillance purposes, can be exploited for mass monitoring, leading to intrusive scrutiny of people’s daily lives.

Ensuring Ethical Use of AI

To mitigate these risks, it is crucial to establish ethical guidelines and regulatory frameworks that govern the use of AI. One approach is the implementation of algorithmic transparency, where AI systems are designed to be transparent about how decisions are made. This can help in identifying and correcting biases and ensuring accountability.

Furthermore, there should be strict data protection regulations to safeguard personal information. Governments and organizations should work together to develop protocols that ensure data is used responsibly. Public awareness about the potential human rights implications of AI is also essential, as informed citizens can advocate for their rights more effectively.

In conclusion, while AI holds the potential to significantly enhance human rights protections, it also poses substantial risks if not managed responsibly. A balanced approach that maximizes the benefits of AI while minimizing its negative impacts is essential for safeguarding human rights in the age of AI.

Questions

Multiple Choice

1. What is one potential positive impact of AI on human rights mentioned in the text?
   a) Increased unemployment
   b) Predictive policing
   c) Data misuse
   d) Mass surveillance

2. According to the article, what is a major concern regarding AI algorithms?
   a) The high cost of development
   b) The potential for inherent bias
   c) The inability to diagnose diseases
   d) Lack of accessibility

Identifying Information (True/False/Not Given)

3. Predictive policing uses AI to analyze data and prevent crimes.
   a) True
   b) False
   c) Not Given

4. AI technologies can only be used in the healthcare sector.
   a) True
   b) False
   c) Not Given

Summary Completion

Complete the summary below using words from the passage.

AI holds potential benefits for human rights, such as in the fields of (5) __ and accessibility. However, a major concern is the (6) __ in AI algorithms, which can lead to unfair treatment in various sectors. Privacy is another significant issue, especially with the use of (7) __ technology for surveillance purposes.

Answer Key and Explanations

1. b) Predictive policing: The text explicitly mentions that predictive policing, an AI-based approach, aims to prevent crimes by analyzing vast amounts of data.
2. b) The potential for inherent bias: The article discusses how AI algorithms can perpetuate biases present in the datasets they are trained on.
3. a) True: The text states that predictive policing aims to prevent crimes before they occur by analyzing data.
4. b) False: The article mentions that AI is used in various sectors including healthcare, finance, legal systems, and policing.
5. healthcare: The passage describes AI’s role in diagnosing diseases in the healthcare sector.
6. bias: The text highlights the concern of inherent bias in AI algorithms.
7. facial recognition: The concern regarding privacy and surveillance is linked to the use of facial recognition technology.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

1. Misinterpreting Information: Be careful to distinguish between stated facts and author’s opinions.
2. Neglecting Small Details: Small details can often change the meaning of a statement and thereby the correct answer.
3. Vocabulary Pitfalls: Ensure to understand the contextual meaning of words and phrases used in the passage.

Vocabulary List

• Predictive Policing (noun): /prɪˈdɪktɪv ˈpəʊlɪsɪŋ/ – The usage of data analysis to predict and prevent future crimes.
• Intrusive (adjective): /ɪnˈtruː.sɪv/ – Causing disruption or annoyance through being unwelcome or uninvited.
• Algorithmic Transparency (noun phrase): /ˌælɡəˈrɪðmɪk trænsˈpærənsi/ – The practice of making the operations of algorithms visible and understandable to the user or public.

Grammar Focus

Passive Voice

• Formula: Object + be (is/are/was/were) + past participle + (by subject)
• Example: “AI systems are designed to be transparent.”

Modal Verbs for Necessity

• Structure: Modal Verb (must, should) + base form of the verb
• Example: “It is crucial to establish ethical guidelines.”

Tips for High Reading Scores

1. Practice Regularly: Consistent reading practice helps improve speed and comprehension.
2. Expand Your Vocabulary: Understanding complex words and phrases improves overall comprehension.
3. Time Management: Develop an effective strategy to allocate time per passage and question.