The Social Implications of Increasing Reliance on AI in Governance

The IELTS Reading section is known for its challenging content and diverse range of topics. In the past years, topics related to artificial intelligence (AI) and its implications have gained popularity and have frequently appeared in various forms. Given the rising significance of AI in governance, it’s plausible to expect such themes to appear in future IELTS exams. In this article, we delve into the social implications of increasing reliance on AI in governance through a reading passage and associated questions. This exercise will help you prepare efficiently for the IELTS Reading section.

Understanding the IELTS Reading Section

The IELTS Reading section consists of 40 questions spread across three sections. Each section presents a new reading passage with a corresponding set of questions. The passages can be challenging and require good comprehension skills. The themes range from academic content to general interest topics, including current affairs and technological advancements.

Reading Passage: The Social Implications of AI in Governance

Passage Type: Medium

Passage

Governance across the globe is increasingly embracing artificial intelligence (AI) to enhance efficiency and decision-making processes. However, the incorporation of AI in governance raises significant social implications, necessitating careful consideration.

One prominent concern is the impact on job security. AI’s ability to perform tasks traditionally executed by humans may lead to widespread unemployment. Particularly vulnerable are administrative and clerical positions, which could be automated through AI algorithms. While AI has the potential to create new job opportunities, the transition might not be seamless for all sectors, leading to socio-economic disparities.

AI Replacing Jobs

Moreover, issues related to fairness and bias in decision-making processes have been subjects of intense debate. Algorithms may inadvertently perpetuate existing biases, affecting decisions in critical areas such as law enforcement, welfare distribution, and hiring practices. For instance, an AI system trained on biased historical data may unjustly target specific communities, amplifying social inequalities.

Another implication centers on surveillance and privacy. Governments employing AI for monitoring and surveillance purposes can potentially infringe on individual privacy. The extensive collection and analysis of personal data may result in a ‘Big Brother’ scenario where citizens’ activities are continuously tracked, raising ethical concerns.

On a positive note, AI can enhance transparency and accountability in governance. Automated systems can reduce human error and corruption, ensuring that public resources are utilized effectively. Moreover, AI-driven data analysis can inform better policymakers, leading to more informed and impactful decisions.

In summary, while AI holds promise for transforming governance, it also presents several social challenges that need to be addressed. Balancing the benefits of AI with the need to protect societal values is crucial for its successful integration into governance.

Questions

Multiple Choice

1. What is one of the primary concerns regarding the use of AI in governance?
   a) Increasing efficiency
   b) Impact on job security
   c) Enhancing decision-making processes
   d) Creating new job opportunities

2. According to the passage, what is a potential negative impact of AI on decision-making?
   a) Reduced transparency
   b) Increased human error
   c) Amplifying existing biases
   d) Lowering efficiency

True/False/Not Given

3. AI systems are less likely to create biases in law enforcement decisions.

   • True
   • False
   • Not Given

4. The use of AI in governance is likely to reduce the need for human oversight.

   • True
   • False
   • Not Given

Sentence Completion

5. Governments employing AI for surveillance can potentially __.
6. Automated systems in governance can reduce __ and human error.

Answer Key and Explanations

Multiple Choice

1. b) Impact on job security
   Explanation: The passage discusses how AI could lead to unemployment, especially for administrative roles.

2. c) Amplifying existing biases
   Explanation: The passage mentions that algorithms could perpetuate biases present in historical data.

True/False/Not Given

3. False
   Explanation: The passage states that AI systems may perpetuate existing biases, indicating that they do not eliminate biases.

4. Not Given
   Explanation: The passage does not explicitly state whether the need for human oversight will be reduced.

Sentence Completion

5. Governments employing AI for surveillance can potentially infringe on individual privacy.
   Explanation: The passage highlights concerns about privacy when AI is used for surveillance.

6. Automated systems in governance can reduce corruption and human error.
   Explanation: The passage states that AI can enhance transparency and accountability by reducing human error and corruption.

Common Mistakes

Understanding the types of questions in the IELTS Reading section is crucial. Common mistakes include failing to identify keywords, overlooking textual evidence, and misinterpreting the writer’s claims. For multiple-choice questions, always eliminate wrong answers to narrow down the choices. For True/False/Not Given questions, ensure that the statement is directly supported or refuted by the text.

Vocabulary

1. Governance (noun) /ˈɡʌvərnəns/: the act of governing or overseeing the control and direction of something, such as a country or institution.
2. Algorithm (noun) /ˈælɡərɪðəm/: a process or set of rules to be followed in calculations or other problem-solving operations, especially by a computer.
3. Surveillance (noun) /sərˈveɪləns/: close observation, especially of a suspected spy or criminal.

Grammar

Modal Verbs for Certainty and Possibility

Example:

• AI can enhance transparency and accountability. (Showing possibility)
• Governments employing AI for surveillance can potentially infringe on individual privacy. (Showing potential consequence)

Advice for Improving Reading Scores

• Expand Your Vocabulary: Familiarize yourself with academic and topic-specific vocabulary.
• Practice Inference: Work on understanding implicit meanings and reading between the lines.
• Time Management: Develop the ability to manage your time efficiently during the exam.

By focusing on these strategies and practicing regularly, you can significantly improve your scores in the IELTS Reading section. For further reading and practice materials, consider exploring other resources on IELTS.NET for comprehensive support.