As AI becomes more commonly available and ever more sophisticated, the ease with which users of all ages may come to rely on AI for sensitive matters will only increase. —AFP via Getty Images/TNS
“(I)t is a massively more powerful and scary thing than I knew about.” That’s how Adam Raine’s dad characterised ChatGPT when he reviewed his son’s conversations with the AI tool. The 16-year-old Californian boy tragically died by suicide in April. His parents are now suing OpenAI and Sam Altman, the company’s CEO, based on allegations that the tool contributed to his death.
This tragic story has rightfully caused a push for tech companies to institute changes and for lawmakers to institute sweeping regulations. While both of those strategies have some merit, computer code and AI-related laws will not address the underlying issue: Our kids need guidance from their parents, educators, and mentors about how and when to use AI.
