From Alexa to driverless cars, predictive policing to facial recognition, the development and adoption of artificial intelligence (AI) is progressing rapidly - the crucial question is how to maximise benefits for the public and avoid the biggest risks.

The choices we make now about how AI is steered and directed will shape the lives of future generations. Many institutions are focussed on developing the technology, but very few are attending to the human, social and public dimensions of AI in a serious way. This is where Nesta is focusing its work, bringing together research and practical programmes to explore the potential of AI as a force for social good - from research into global trends in AI, to experiments that combine human and machine intelligence.

Our vision is to work towards AI that is applied in the long-term public interest. That means:

  • Building a stronger evidence base about the current state of AI, including its impacts and biases.
  • Directing resources where they can generate the most social impact
  • Using AI to enable groups of people to think and act smarter together.
  • A broader range of people and voices shaping the development and use of AI, through more meaningful public participation.