Date on Master's Thesis/Doctoral Dissertation
4-2021
Document Type
Master's Thesis
Degree Name
M. Eng.
Department
Computer Engineering and Computer Science
Committee Chair
Yampolskiy, Roman
Committee Co-Chair (if applicable)
Zhang, Wei
Committee Member
Kantardzic, Mehmed
Committee Member
Biro, Csaba
Author's Keywords
Artificial Intelligence; AI Safety; Normal Accident Theory; AI Alignment
Abstract
As AI technologies increase in capability and ubiquity, AI accidents are becoming more common. Based on normal accident theory, high reliability theory, and open systems theory, we create a framework for understanding the risks associated with AI applications. In addition, we also use AI safety principles to quantify the unique risks of increased intelligence and human-like qualities in AI. Together, these two fields give a more complete picture of the risks of contemporary AI. By focusing on system properties near accidents instead of seeking a root cause of accidents, we identify where attention should be paid to safety for current generation AI systems.
Recommended Citation
Williams, Robert Max C, "Understanding and Avoiding AI Failures: A Practical Guide." (2021). Electronic Theses and Dissertations. Paper 3442.
https://doi.org/10.18297/etd/3442