Challenging the Norms: The Intersection of Gender, Class, and AI Bias

This podcast episode delves into the critical issue of gender bias in artificial intelligence, highlighting how biases can perpetuate existing stereotypes and inequalities in the workforce.

Dr Anna Paraskevopoulou, an Associate Professor at Anglia Ruskin University, shares her insights on how AI systems often reflect societal biases, particularly in representation and professional roles.

Through a compelling experiment, she demonstrates how AI-generated images predominantly depict men in high-status professions while associating women with lower-paid roles.

The conversation also explores the intersectionality of social class and its overlooked impact on AI, emphasising the need for diverse teams in technology development to foster inclusivity and equity.

Listeners are encouraged to reflect on the implications of these biases for younger generations and the importance of critical engagement with AI technologies to create a more equitable future.

Takeaways:

• Social class is often overlooked in discussions about bias in AI and technology.
• Diverse teams in AI development lead to better, more inclusive systems and outcomes.
• Biases in AI can perpetuate stereotypes, affecting young people's perceptions of gender roles.
• AI's impact on job recruitment processes can disadvantage women and minority groups significantly.
• Understanding intersectionality is crucial for addressing how inequalities manifest in AI systems.
• Education and training are essential to equip individuals with the skills needed for the digital age.