Academy publishes new Whitehall primer
Members of the Erlangen AI Hub alongside colleagues from the Prob_AI Research Hub and INFORMED-AI Hub have made contributions to An excellent initiative from the Academy for the Mathematical Sciences, highlighting the critical role that mathematics plays in the structures of AI. The primer is directed particularly at civil servants grappling with the subject.
The primer ‘Mathematics in the age of AI’ provides an accessible introduction to many key topics shaping the future of AI, and can support analysts, policymakers, and decision-makers in government. In the words of Nigel Campbell, the Academy for the Mathematical Sciences Vice President and former Senior Civil Servant:
“As AI becomes increasingly important across the economy and public services, the need for strong mathematical capability will only grow. This primer makes clear that sustained investment in the mathematical sciences is not simply an investment in research, but an investment in the capabilities needed to realise the benefits of AI responsibly and effectively.”
As we noted on social media at publication date, strong mathematical foundations are indeed essential for developing robust, trustworthy systems. This primer picks out some of the key mathematical principles underpinning modern AI. It also showcases real life applications and sketches out the challenges ahead and is therefore a must read.