MONOPOLY MONEY: THE INFLUENCE OF DONORS IN DONOR-ADVISED FUNDS

 

Monopoly Money: The Influence of Donors in Donor-Advised Funds

Donor-Advised Funds: The Secret Society of Philanthropy  

Have you heard of Donor-Advised Funds (DAFs)? No? Well, you're not alone. These funds are like the Illuminati of the philanthropic world - shrouded in secrecy and mystery. But unlike the Illuminati, they're not trying to take over the world (as far as we know). Instead, they're just hoarding money and causing a stir in the charitable sector.

So, what's the deal with DAFs? Well, for starters, they allow donors to remain anonymous. That's right, you can donate to a DAF without anyone knowing it was you. It's like being a secret Santa all year round. But while anonymity can be fun, it also raises concerns about accountability and transparency. Critics argue that this lack of transparency makes it difficult to determine the true sources of funds and may facilitate money laundering or other illicit activities. Who knew philanthropy could be so shady?

But that's not all. DAFs are also not required to disclose detailed information about the grants they make. Unlike private foundations, which must file annual tax returns that include information about their grants, DAFs are not subject to the same level of reporting requirements. This lack of transparency makes it challenging to assess how funds are distributed and whether they align with the intended charitable purposes. It's like trying to solve a puzzle with missing pieces - frustrating and ultimately unsatisfying.

And if that wasn't enough, there's also concern that DAFs could be used to accumulate assets indefinitely without distributing them to active charitable causes. Critics argue that this hoarding of funds runs counter to the purpose of philanthropy, which is to actively support charitable endeavors. Some have called for stricter regulations or minimum payout requirements for DAFs to ensure that funds are used for their intended charitable purposes. It's like having a savings account that you never touch - what's the point?

But wait, there's more! Donors who contribute to DAFs often retain advisory privileges over the investment and distribution of those funds. This control can allow donors to shape the investment strategy of the funds, potentially prioritizing personal interests or agendas over broader charitable goals. Critics argue that this influence compromises the independence and impartiality of the funds, leading to potential conflicts of interest and undermining the public trust in the philanthropic sector. It's like playing monopoly with someone who always insists on being the banker.

So, what can be done about all this? Various proposals have been made to increase transparency and accountability for DAFs. These include advocating for more extensive reporting requirements, implementing minimum payout thresholds, and promoting greater disclosure of donor information. However, the debate around these issues continues, as there are differing opinions on the balance between privacy and transparency in philanthropy.

In conclusion, DAFs may seem like a fun way to secretly donate money, but they come with a whole host of issues. From lack of transparency to potential abuse, these funds have caused quite a stir in the philanthropic world. But fear not, there are solutions being proposed. In the meantime, if you want to donate money, maybe just do it the old-fashioned way - with a check and a smile. And if you really want to be anonymous, just wear a fake mustache and sunglasses while doing so. It's foolproof. 

Donor-advised funds (DAFs) have been subject to criticism regarding their lack of transparency for several reasons:

• Anonymity: Donor-advised funds allow donors to remain anonymous, as they can make contributions to the fund without disclosing their identity publicly. While anonymity can be important in certain cases, it also raises concerns about accountability and transparency. Critics argue that this lack of transparency makes it difficult to determine the true sources of funds and may facilitate money laundering or other illicit activities.
• Limited reporting requirements: Donor-advised funds are not required to disclose detailed information about the grants they make. Unlike private foundations, which must file annual tax returns (Form 990) that include information about their grants, DAFs are not subject to the same level of reporting requirements. This lack of transparency makes it challenging to assess how funds are distributed and whether they align with the intended charitable purposes.
• Potential for abuse: Due to the limited reporting requirements, there is concern that donor-advised funds could be used to accumulate assets indefinitely without distributing them to active charitable causes. Critics argue that this hoarding of funds runs counter to the purpose of philanthropy, which is to actively support charitable endeavors. Some have called for stricter regulations or minimum payout requirements for DAFs to ensure that funds are used for their intended charitable purposes
• Influence over investment decisions: Donors who contribute to donor-advised funds often retain advisory privileges over the investment and distribution of those funds. This control can allow donors to shape the investment strategy of the funds, potentially prioritizing personal interests or agendas over broader charitable goals. Critics argue that this influence compromises the independence and impartiality of the funds, leading to potential conflicts of interest and undermining the public trust in the philanthropic sector.

To address these concerns, various proposals have been made to increase transparency and accountability for donor-advised funds. These include advocating for more extensive reporting requirements, implementing minimum payout thresholds, and promoting greater disclosure of donor information. However, the debate around these issues continues, as there are differing opinions on the balance between privacy and transparency in philanthropy.

THE DEFT DIVE

A **donor-advised fund** is an account at a sponsoring organization, generally a public charity, where an individual can make a charitable gift to enjoy an immediate tax benefit and retain advisory privileges to disburse charitable gifts over time¹². In the United States, a donor-advised fund is a charitable giving vehicle administered by a public charity created to manage charitable donations on behalf of organizations, families, or individuals¹.

Donor-advised funds have been subject to criticism regarding their lack of transparency because they do not disclose the identity of the donors or the recipients of the grants. Some critics argue that donor-advised funds allow donors to avoid scrutiny and accountability for their charitable giving, and that they may delay or divert funds from reaching the intended beneficiaries¹. Others defend donor-advised funds as a way to democratize philanthropy, offer tax advantages, and provide flexibility and convenience for donors².

Some examples of sponsoring organizations that offer donor-advised funds are community foundations, national charities, religious organizations, and financial institutions. Some of the largest donor-advised funds in the United States are Fidelity Charitable, Schwab Charitable, Vanguard Charitable, National Philanthropic Trust, and The Giving Fund¹².

Bing, 7/7/2023

(1) Donor-advised fund - Wikipedia. https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Donor-advised_fund.

(2) What Is a Donor-Advised Fund, and How Does It Work?. https://www.nerdwallet.com/article/taxes/donor-advised-funds.

(3) Donor-Advised Fund Definition, Sponsors, Pros & Cons, Example. https://www.investopedia.com/terms/d/donoradvisedfund.asp.

Some of the benefits of using a donor-advised fund are:

• - You can **provide financial support to charities** of your choice, either locally or nationally, and make a positive impact on the causes you care about²⁴.
• - You can **claim a tax deduction** in the year you contribute assets to the donor-advised fund, regardless of when you distribute them to the charities. This can help you reduce your taxable income and plan your charitable giving more strategically¹²³.
• - You can **avoid or lower capital gains taxes** on assets you donate to the donor-advised fund, especially if they have appreciated in value. You can also deduct the fair market value of the assets, rather than their original cost basis¹².
• - You can **reduce your estate tax** liability by transferring assets to the donor-advised fund, as they are no longer part of your taxable estate. This can also help you preserve your wealth for future generations¹².
• - You can **easily contribute a wide range of assets**, including cash, stocks, mutual funds, bonds, real estate, and even complex assets such as private business interests or cryptocurrency¹².
• - You can **streamline your giving and maximize your impact** by having a single account that handles all your charitable donations. You can also recommend how to invest the assets in the donor-advised fund, potentially increasing their value over time¹⁴⁵.
• - You can **create a legacy of giving** by naming successors or beneficiaries for your donor-advised fund account, or by making a bequest in your will to donate the remaining assets to your favorite charities after you pass away¹⁵.

 Bing, 7/7/2023

(1) Donor-Advised Funds: The Benefits and Drawbacks - Investopedia. https://www.investopedia.com/articles/managing-wealth/080216/donoradvised-funds-benefits-and-drawbacks.asp.

(2) Benefits of Donor-Advised Funds | NPTrust. https://www.nptrust.org/benefits-of-donor-advised-funds/.

(3) What Is a Donor-Advised Fund, and How Does It Work?. https://www.nerdwallet.com/article/taxes/donor-advised-funds.

(4) Pros and Cons of Donor-Advised Funds | Morningstar. https://www.morningstar.com/personal-finance/pros-cons-donor-advised-funds-2.

(5) 10 Benefits of Giving through a Donor Advised Fund. https://columbusfoundation.org/charitable-insights/10-benefits-of-giving-through-a-donor-advised-fund.

UPDATE OKLAHOMA STUDENTS TRY TO EXPLAIN THIS: OKLA STATE SUP OF EDUCATION MORE TWISTED THAN AN OKLAHOMA TORNADO - TEACH TULSA RACE MASSACRE WAS NOT ABOUT SKIN COLOR

 

OKLA STATE SUP OF EDUCATION MORE TWISTED THAN AN OKLAHOMA TORNADO TEACH TULSA RACE MASSACRE WAS NOT ABOUT SKIN COLOR

Oklahoma Students Explain The Tulsa Race Massacre https://www.theonion.com/oklahoma-students-explain-the-tulsa-race-massacre-1850632258 

Breaking news, folks! It turns out that the State Superintendent of Oklahoma, Ryan Walters, is not just a man of education, but also a man of remarkable flexibility. Yes, you heard that right. Ryan Walters is a contortionist! And not just any contortionist, mind you. He's more twisted than an Oklahoma tornado!

Now, you might be wondering what this has to do with education. Well, it turns out that Mr. Walters has been in the news lately for his stance on teaching the history of the Tulsa Race Massacre in public schools. He wants it to be taught without mentioning skin color. Huh? How is that even possible? It's like teaching about the American Revolution without mentioning the British. It just doesn't make sense.

But fear not, dear readers, because Mr. Walters has a plan. He believes that the Tulsa Race Massacre can be taught without conflicting with his definition of Critical Race Theory. How, you ask? Well, let me explain.

According to Mr. Walters, teaching about the Tulsa Race Massacre doesn't have to focus on skin color. Instead, it can focus on the events leading up to the massacre and the aftermath. We can talk about the economic and political factors that contributed to the massacre, as well as the impact it had on the community.

Now, I don't know about you, but I find this a bit absurd. How can we talk about the Tulsa Race Massacre without mentioning skin color? It's like talking about the sinking of the Titanic without mentioning icebergs. Skin color was at the very heart of what happened in Tulsa in 1921. To ignore it is to ignore history.

But let's give Mr. Walters the benefit of the doubt for a moment. Let's say we do teach about the Tulsa Race Massacre without mentioning skin color. What would that look like? Well, it would look something like this:

Teacher: "Today, class, we're going to learn about the Tulsa Race Massacre. In 1921, a group of white people attacked a group of black people in Tulsa. Many people were killed and many more were injured. The end."

Student: "Wait, what? That's it? What happened? Why did they attack them?"

Teacher: "Oh, well, you see, there were some economic and political factors at play. And there was this one guy who got in an elevator with a white woman and...oh, never mind. It's not important."

Student: "But why did they attack them?"

Teacher: "I don't know, Timmy. Maybe they just didn't like their hats."

See what I mean? It's ridiculous. If we're going to teach about the Tulsa Race Massacre, we have to do it right. We have to talk about skin color and racism and all the ugly things that led up to that terrible day in 1921.

But hey, maybe Mr. Walters is onto something here. Maybe we can teach about the Tulsa Race Massacre without mentioning skin color. And while we're at it, let's teach about World War II without mentioning Nazis, and let's teach about the Civil Rights Movement without mentioning segregation. It'll be fun!

In all seriousness, though, we can't ignore history just because it's uncomfortable or inconvenient. We have to face it head-on and teach our children the truth, no matter how ugly it may be. And if Mr. Walters can't handle that truth, maybe he should consider a career change. I hear the circus is always looking for contortionists.

Oklahoma Superintendent Insists Tulsa Race Massacre Can Be Taught Without Mentioning Skin Color https://jezebel.com/oklahoma-superintendent-insists-tulsa-race-massacre-be-1850615161?utm_medium=sharefromsite&utm_source=jezebel_twitter via @jezebel 

Public meeting gets heated as Norman residents put Walters on the spot | News | normantranscript.com https://www.normantranscript.com/news/public-meeting-gets-heated-as-norman-residents-put-walters-on-the-spot/article_260ff4b0-1cfa-11ee-9e41-fbf3aabbfa8e.html 

FLORIDA REDNECK U: FREEDOM INSTITUTE & A MILLION DOLLAR BOSS

 

FLORIDA REDNECK U:

FREEDOM INSTITUTE  & A MILLION DOLLAR BOSS

New College of Florida, affectionately known as Redneck U, has recently made headlines for its proposed Freedom Institute and its million-dollar president. And let me tell you, folks, this is one wild ride.

First of all, let's talk about the college itself. It's a public liberal arts college located in Sarasota, Florida, and it's known for its academic rigor, student-faculty collaboration, and narrative evaluations instead of grades. But don't let that fool you, this is still Redneck U we're talking about.

In recent years, the college has faced some major changes and challenges, especially after Governor Ron DeSantis appointed six new members to its board of trustees in January 2023. And let's just say, some of these new trustees have been vocal critics of the college's diversity, equity and inclusion (DEI) programs and policies. They've advocated for a more conservative and traditional approach to higher education. Because who needs progress when you can just stick to the good ol' days, am I right?

But fear not, the college's supporters have protested these changes imposed by the governor and the new trustees. They argue that they threaten the college's academic freedom, innovation, and excellence. And who doesn't love a good protest? It's like a party with picket signs.

Now let's get to the juicy stuff. The Freedom Institute. This is a proposed initiative by the New College of Florida Board of Trustees that would request $2 million from the state Legislature to set up a program aimed at combating "cancel culture" in higher education. Yes, you heard that right. Cancel culture. Because apparently, the biggest threat to higher education is not lack of funding or resources, but cancel culture.

The institute would promote "tolerance of opposing views" and "engage such views in civil discourse." And who wouldn't want that? We all know how civil discourse has been lacking in recent years. But wait, there's more! The institute would also hire scholars to work and teach on the New College campus, offer short courses open to the public, hold live events promoting free speech principles, and create and deliver professional development programs for school teachers and university professors.

Sounds great, right? Well, not according to some. The Freedom Institute has faced opposition from students, faculty, alumni and supporters of the New College of Florida who have protested the changes imposed by DeSantis and the new board. They argue that they threaten the college's academic freedom, innovation and excellence. And honestly, who needs academic freedom when you can just stick to the status quo?

But let's not forget about the billionaires, foundations and super pacs that support the New College of Florida. According to its 2020 annual report, the New College Foundation raised $2.8 million in total revenue. Some of the donors and grantors that supported the New College Foundation in 2020 include The Achelis & Bodman Foundation, The Alkermes Inspiration Grant Program, The Charles A. Frueauff Foundation, The New York Community Trust, The Peter Jay Sharp Foundation, The Robin Hood Foundation, and The William Randolph Hearst Foundation. And if that's not enough, there are also sources that are not publicly disclosed or easily traceable. It's like a mystery novel, but instead of solving a crime, we're trying to figure out who's funding Redneck U.

In conclusion, folks, Redneck U is anything but boring. From protests to million-dollar presidents to cancel culture combatting institutes, there's never a dull moment at this college. So if you're looking for excitement and drama in your higher education experience, look no further than New College of Florida.

THE DEFT DIVE

The New College of Florida is a public liberal arts college in Sarasota, Florida, that was founded in 1960. It has about 800 students and offers more than 40 majors and concentrations. The college is known for its academic rigor, student-faculty collaboration, and narrative evaluations instead of grades³.

The college has faced some major changes and challenges in recent years, especially after Governor Ron DeSantis appointed six new members to its board of trustees in January 2023. Some of the new trustees, such as Christopher Rufo, have been vocal critics of the college's diversity, equity and inclusion (DEI) programs and policies, and have advocated for a more conservative and traditional approach to higher education².

The college's supporters include its students, alumni, faculty, parents, donors, and community members who value its educational mission, values, and principles. They have protested the changes imposed by the governor and the new trustees, arguing that they threaten the college's academic freedom, innovation, and excellence¹⁵. They have also expressed their support for the college's first dean of DEI, who was hired in 2022 after a recommendation from a previous trustee appointed by DeSantis².

Some of the ways that supporters can give to the college include scholarships, research support, emergency assistance, planned giving, annual giving, and matching gifts³. The college also has a foundation and an alumni association that work to raise funds, engage alumni, and promote the college's interests⁴.

Bing, 7/7/2023

(1) Ways to Give - New College of Florida. https://www.ncf.edu/give/.

(2) Ron DeSantis took over a college in Florida. Now what? - The Atlantic. https://www.theatlantic.com/ideas/archive/2023/03/new-college-florida-ron-desantis-takeover/673556/.

(3) Students and supporters decry big changes at New College of Florida .... https://wusfnews.wusf.usf.edu/education/2023-02-01/students-supporters-decry-big-changes-new-college-of-florida.

(4) New College supporters criticize transformation plan during meeting .... https://www.heraldtribune.com/story/news/politics/2023/01/13/desantis-plan-to-reinvent-new-college-condemned-at-legislative-meeting/69800838007/.

(5) Foundation & Alumni - New College of Florida. https://www.ncf.edu/alumni/.

New College of Florida's planned Freedom Institute and its relationship to right-wing groups.

The Freedom Institute is a proposed initiative by the New College of Florida Board of Trustees that would request $2 million from the state Legislature to set up a program aimed at combating "cancel culture" in higher education¹². The institute would promote "tolerance of opposing views" and "engage such views in civil discourse," according to a description of the institute included in the trustees' meeting agenda¹².

The institute would also hire scholars to work and teach on the New College campus, offer short courses open to the public, hold live events promoting free speech principles, and create and deliver professional development programs for school teachers and university professors¹².

The Freedom Institute is part of a series of changes at the New College of Florida that have been driven by Governor Ron DeSantis and his conservative allies, who have accused the college of indoctrinating its students with leftist ideology²⁵. DeSantis appointed six new members to the college's board of trustees in January 2023, including Christopher Rufo, a vocal critic of diversity, equity and inclusion programs and policies². The new board then voted to install Richard Corcoran, a former House Speaker and state education commissioner, as the college's interim president after forcing out the previous president²⁵.

The Freedom Institute has been compared to similar programs at other universities that have been funded or influenced by right-wing groups, such as the Hillsdale College's Allan P. Kirby Center for Constitutional Studies and Citizenship in Washington D.C., which has received donations from the Charles Koch Foundation and the Bradley Foundation⁴. The Freedom Institute's funding sources have not been disclosed yet, but some critics have speculated that it could be supported by similar donors or groups that share DeSantis' political agenda⁵.

The Freedom Institute has faced opposition from students, faculty, alumni and supporters of the New College of Florida, who have protested the changes imposed by DeSantis and the new board, arguing that they threaten the college's academic freedom, innovation and excellence²⁵. They have also expressed their support for the college's diversity, equity and inclusion programs and policies, which they say are essential for creating a welcoming and inclusive learning environment²⁵.

Bing, 7/7/2023

(1) New College of Florida wants $2 million for ‘Freedom Institute’ to .... https://bing.com/search?q=New+College+of+Florida+Freedom+Institute.

(2) New College wants ‘Freedom Institute’ to battle ‘cancel culture’. https://www.orlandosentinel.com/2023/07/07/new-college-wants-freedom-institute-to-battle-cancel-culture/.

(3) New College of Florida board eyes Freedom Institute to ... - ClickOrlando. https://www.clickorlando.com/news/2023/07/07/new-college-of-florida-board-eyes-freedom-institute-to-combat-cancel-culture/.

(4) New College of Florida board eyes 'Freedom Institute'. https://www.bizjournals.com/tampabay/news/2023/07/07/new-college-board-eyes-freedom-institute.html.

(5) New College of Florida Trustees OK request for $2 million for funding 'Freedom Institute'. https://news.yahoo.com/college-florida-trustees-ok-request-080350523.html.

The critics of the Freedom Institute.

The Freedom Institute is a proposed initiative by the New College of Florida Board of Trustees that would request $2 million from the state Legislature to set up a program aimed at combating "cancel culture" in higher education¹². The institute would promote "tolerance of opposing views" and "engage such views in civil discourse," according to a description of the institute included in the trustees' meeting agenda¹².

The Freedom Institute has faced opposition from various groups and individuals who have criticized it as a political move by Governor Ron DeSantis and his conservative allies to undermine the academic freedom, innovation and excellence of the New College of Florida, a small liberal arts college known for its diversity, equity and inclusion programs and policies²³⁴.

Some of the critics of the Freedom Institute include:

• - Students, faculty and alumni from New College and far beyond who have decried the takeover as an attack on academic integrity with national implications. Multiple scholarly organizations, such as the American Anthropological Association and the American Historical Association, have denounced it as "an orchestrated attack on academic integrity" .
• - The New College Student Alliance, which represents the student body, which has issued a statement expressing its "deep concern" about the Freedom Institute and its potential impact on the college's curriculum, faculty hiring, student admissions and campus culture. The statement also called for more transparency and accountability from the board of trustees and the interim president .
• - The New College Foundation, which raises funds for the college, which has expressed its "grave reservations" about the Freedom Institute and its alignment with the college's mission and values. The foundation also questioned the legitimacy of the board of trustees' decision-making process and urged them to reconsider their request for state funding .
• - The New College Alumni Association, which represents more than 6,000 alumni, which has issued a letter to the board of trustees expressing its "strong opposition" to the Freedom Institute and its "grave concerns" about the direction of the college under the new leadership. The letter also called for more dialogue and collaboration with the college community and stakeholders .
• - The Sarasota-Manatee Legislative Delegation, which consists of six state lawmakers who represent Sarasota and Manatee counties, which has expressed its skepticism about the Freedom Institute and its funding request. The delegation also questioned the board of trustees' authority to make such a request without consulting with the college community or the Florida Board of Governors .

Bing, 7/7/2023

(1) “The Florida of Today Is the America of Tomorrow”: Ron DeSantis’s New .... https://bing.com/search?q=critics+of+New+College+of+Florida+Freedom+Institute.

(2) New College will ask Florida for $2M to combat ‘cancel culture’. https://www.tampabay.com/news/education/2023/07/07/new-college-will-ask-florida-2m-combat-cancel-culture/.

(3) Ron DeSantis took over a college in Florida. Now what? - The Atlantic. https://www.theatlantic.com/ideas/archive/2023/03/new-college-florida-ron-desantis-takeover/673556/.

(4) Ron Desantis turns eye towards progressive colleges in 'woke' war. https://www.usatoday.com/story/news/education/2023/01/15/ron-desantis-turns-eye-towards-progressive-colleges-woke-war/11033844002/.

The billionaires, foundations and superpacs that support the New College of Florida.

The New College of Florida is a public liberal arts college in Sarasota, Florida, that receives funding from various sources, including state appropriations, tuition and fees, grants and contracts, and private donations. The college also has a foundation that raises funds for the college's academic programs, scholarships, research, faculty development and campus improvement¹.

According to its 2020 annual report, the New College Foundation raised $2.8 million in total revenue, of which 44% came from donations, 28% from grants, 25% from fees for service, and 3% from events². Some of the donors and grantors that supported the New College Foundation in 2020 include:

• - The Achelis & Bodman Foundation, a private foundation that supports education, arts and culture, health and human services, and public policy³.
• - The Alkermes Inspiration Grant Program, a grant program that supports nonprofit organizations that address the needs of people affected by addiction, mental health disorders or cancer.
• - The Charles A. Frueauff Foundation, a private foundation that supports education, health and social services.
• - The New York Community Trust, a community foundation that supports nonprofits in New York City and beyond.
• - The Peter Jay Sharp Foundation, a private foundation that supports arts and culture, education, health and human services.
• - The Robin Hood Foundation, a nonprofit organization that fights poverty in New York City.
• - The William Randolph Hearst Foundation, a private foundation that supports education, health, culture and social service.

In addition to these donors and grantors, the New College of Florida may also receive support from other sources that are not publicly disclosed or easily traceable. For example, a recent report by The Intercept revealed that Christopher Rufo, a conservative activist and a new trustee appointed by Governor Ron DeSantis to the college's board of trustees, received an influx of cash to his documentary foundation from donor advised funds (DAFs), which are charitable funds tied to large financial management firms like Fidelity and Charles Schwab. DAFs allow donors to conceal their identities and avoid public scrutiny of their giving. Rufo did not disclose the sources of these donations when asked by The Intercept.

Rufo is also affiliated with other conservative organizations that may have an interest in supporting the New College of Florida or its proposed Freedom Institute, a program aimed at combating "cancel culture" in higher education. For example, Rufo is a senior fellow at the Manhattan Institute for Policy Research, a conservative think tank that has received donations from the Charles Koch Foundation and the Bradley Foundation. He is also a contributing editor at City Journal, a magazine published by the Manhattan Institute that has received donations from the same foundations.

Bing, 7/7/2023

(1) New College of Florida trustee saw an influx of cash to his foundation .... https://wusfnews.wusf.usf.edu/politics-issues/2023-06-21/new-college-of-florida-trustee-influx-of-cash-foundation.

(2) Ron DeSantis took over a college in Florida. Now what? - The Atlantic. https://www.theatlantic.com/ideas/archive/2023/03/new-college-florida-ron-desantis-takeover/673556/.

(3) Prominent political aide named director of New College Foundation .... https://www.businessobserverfl.com/news/2023/mar/23/prominent-political-aide-named-director-of-new-college-foundation/.

THE END IS NEAR: AI WILL REPLACE YOU

THE END IS NEAR

 AI WILL REPLACE YOU 

Attention all humans! The end is near, and it's not because of a natural disaster or an alien invasion. No, it's because artificial intelligence (AI) is poised to take over the world and replace us all. And the first victim of this AI takeover? Public education as we know it.

Yes, my dear human friends, the days of traditional classrooms, chalkboards, and human teachers are numbered. Soon, AI will be the one calling the shots in education, and we'll all be left scratching our heads wondering what just happened.

But before you panic and start hoarding canned goods and ammunition, let's take a closer look at what AI can and cannot do in education.

On the one hand, AI can enhance education by providing personalized feedback, automating grading, and offering adaptive learning materials. On the other hand, AI cannot replace the value of human interaction, the development of essential skills, and the role of teachers in guiding students and fostering a sense of community.

Sure, AI can automate certain tasks, but can it really replace the role of a teacher in facilitating discussions and fostering a sense of community? Can it really replace the value of traditional subjects like English writing, mathematics, and art? I think not.

And let's not forget about the potential risks and challenges of using AI in education. For one thing, AI may not be able to provide the same level of human and emotional support that students need from their teachers and peers. It may also require technical expertise and training for teachers, which not all educators may have.

Furthermore, AI-powered tools and platforms may be expensive to acquire, maintain, and update, creating a digital divide between developed and developing countries. And let's not forget about the potential privacy and ethical issues of data collection and use.

But hey, let's not get too bogged down in the details. After all, who needs human teachers when you can have personalized ChatGPT-style tutors powered by AI? According to one expert, these tutors could deliver tailored support to every child in the world with a smartphone. Who needs social interaction when you can have an algorithm telling you what to do?

But wait, there's more! AI is already being used in education in various ways. Language learning apps like Duolingo and Rosetta Stone use natural language processing and speech recognition to help learners acquire new languages. Math learning platforms like ALEKS and Carnegie Learning use data and algorithms to provide adaptive assessments and personalized learning plans for math students. And plagiarism detection tools like Turnitin and Grammarly use machine learning to detect plagiarism and grammatical errors in students' writing.

But why stop there? Let's use AI to monitor students' behavior during online exams with facial recognition, eye tracking, and keystroke analysis. Let's use AI-powered chatbots to provide information, guidance, and support for prospective and current students. Let's even use AI to transcribe faculty lectures into text!

The possibilities are endless, my friends. And who cares about the potential risks and challenges? Let's just forge ahead blindly into a future where AI rules all.

But wait...what about the potential unemployment of teachers and educational staff? What about the gap between developed and developing countries in terms of infrastructure and access? What about the gender and economic inequalities in education?

Oh right, those pesky little details again.

But fear not, humans! We can still use AI for good. We can use it to improve accessibility for students with disabilities, to provide personalization and differentiation for all learners, to enhance collaboration and inclusion among diverse groups, and to expand opportunities and empowerment for those with limited resources or support.

So let's not give up on education just yet. Let's not surrender to the AI overlords without a fight. Let's embrace technology as a complementary tool that enhances teaching rather than a replacement for human educators.

And who knows? Maybe one day we'll look back on this moment in history as a funny little blip on the radar of education. Or maybe we'll all be living in a dystopian future ruled by our robot overlords.

Either way, it should be a good laugh.

AI likely to spell end of traditional school classroom, leading expert says https://www.theguardian.com/technology/2023/jul/07/ai-likely-to-spell-end-of-traditional-school-classroom-leading-expert-says?CMP=share_btn_tw 

THE DEFT DIVE

AI is a powerful technology that can enhance education in many ways, such as providing personalized feedback, automating grading, and offering adaptive learning materials. However, AI cannot replace the value of human interaction, the development of essential skills, and the role of teachers in guiding students and fostering a sense of community. Here are some points to consider:

• - Technology and AI can be used to enhance education and make it more accessible and effective, but they cannot replace the value of human interaction and the development of essential skills. While AI has made significant progress in various areas, it cannot fully replace the need for traditional subjects like English writing, mathematics, and art¹.
• - AI offers the promise of revolutionizing traditional teaching methods and enhancing the learning experience for students. At the rate AI is being accelerated into society, it could eventually replace a large group of traditional schoolteachers, and with historically low test schools in many large metropolitan school districts parents may welcome an alternative to the traditional teaching model².
• - Great teachers remain the cornerstone of effective learning. AI should be seen as a complementary tool that enhances teaching rather than a replacement for human educators. While AI can automate certain tasks, the role of teachers in guiding students, facilitating discussions, and fostering a sense of community remains irreplaceable³.
• - AI is not replacing the human aspect of teaching per se. On the contrary, it is becoming quite a useful counterpart of the teaching profession. AI can help teachers with administrative tasks, data analysis, and personalized instruction. AI can also help students with self-paced learning, feedback, and remediation⁴.

Bing, 7/7/2023

(1) Can AI Replace Traditional Education - Thinking In Educating. https://www.thinkingineducating.com/can-ai-replace-traditional-education/.

(2) Opinion: AI Can Help Educate Our Kids Now, and it May Also Replace .... https://timesofsandiego.com/opinion/2023/05/27/ai-can-help-educate-our-kids-but-it-may-also-replace-teachers/.

(3) AI Will Transform Teaching and Learning. Let’s Get it Right.. https://hai.stanford.edu/news/ai-will-transform-teaching-and-learning-lets-get-it-right.

(4) Is artificial intelligence replacing traditional methods of teaching?. https://www.getmagicbox.com/blog/artificial-intelligence-replacing-traditional-methods-teaching/.

AI in education is a broad field that encompasses many applications and use cases. Here are some examples of how AI is currently being used in education:

• - **Language learning apps**: AI-powered apps like Duolingo and Rosetta Stone use natural language processing and speech recognition to help learners acquire new languages. They also use AI to personalize lessons, provide feedback, and track progress¹.
• - **Math learning platforms**: AI-powered platforms like ALEKS and Carnegie Learning use data and algorithms to provide adaptive assessments and personalized learning plans for math students. They also use AI to offer hints, explanations, and remediation²³.
• - **Plagiarism detection**: AI-powered tools like Turnitin and Grammarly use natural language processing and machine learning to detect plagiarism and grammatical errors in students' writing. They also provide feedback and suggestions for improvement⁴.
• - **Exam integrity**: AI-powered tools like Proctorio and Examity use facial recognition, eye tracking, and keystroke analysis to monitor students' behavior during online exams. They also flag suspicious activities and generate reports for instructors⁴.
• - **Chatbots for enrollment and retention**: AI-powered chatbots like AdmitHub and Ivy.ai use natural language processing and machine learning to provide information, guidance, and support for prospective and current students. They also use AI to analyze student data and identify at-risk students⁴.
• - **Learning management systems**: AI-powered learning management systems like Blackboard and Canvas use data and algorithms to organize, deliver, and manage online courses. They also use AI to provide analytics, recommendations, and feedback for instructors and students⁴.
• - **Transcription of faculty lectures**: AI-powered tools like Otter.ai and Trint use speech recognition and natural language processing to transcribe faculty lectures into text. They also use AI to generate summaries, keywords, and timestamps⁴.
• - **Enhanced online discussion boards**: AI-powered tools like Packback and Yellowdig use natural language processing and machine learning to facilitate online discussions among students. They also use AI to moderate content, generate questions, and reward participation⁴.
• - **Analyzing student success metrics**: AI-powered tools like Civitas Learning and EAB use data and algorithms to analyze student success metrics such as retention, graduation, and career outcomes. They also use AI to provide insights, predictions, and interventions for students and educators⁴.

Bing, 7/7/2023

(1) 43 Examples of Artificial Intelligence in Education. https://onlinedegrees.sandiego.edu/artificial-intelligence-education/.

(2) Artificial intelligence in education | UNESCO. https://www.unesco.org/en/digital-education/artificial-intelligence.

(3) Artificial Intelligence (AI) in education: Impact & Examples - QuestionPro. https://www.questionpro.com/blog/ai-in-education/.

(4) Artificial Intelligence In Education: Examples - Dataconomy. https://dataconomy.com/2023/02/03/artificial-intelligence-in-education/.

AI in education also poses many challenges and risks that need to be addressed carefully and ethically. Here are some of the main challenges of using AI in education:

• - **The lack of human and emotional support for students**: AI-powered tools and platforms may not be able to provide the same level of human and emotional support that students need from their teachers and peers. AI may not be able to understand the nuances of human communication, emotions, and culture, or to foster social and emotional skills, creativity, and critical thinking¹.
• - **The need for technical expertise and training for teachers**: Teachers may not have the necessary technical expertise and training to use AI effectively and responsibly in their classrooms. They may also face difficulties in integrating AI with their existing pedagogical practices and curricula. Teachers may need to learn new digital skills to use AI in a meaningful way and to monitor its impact on student learning².
• - **The cost of AI tools and applications**: AI-powered tools and applications may be expensive to acquire, maintain, and update. They may also require advanced infrastructure and connectivity that may not be available or affordable in some contexts. The cost of AI may create or widen the digital divide between developed and developing countries, as well as between urban and rural areas².
• - **The privacy and ethical issues of data collection and use**: AI-powered tools and platforms rely on large amounts of data to function and improve. However, this data may contain sensitive and personal information about students, teachers, and schools that may be vulnerable to misuse, abuse, or hacking. There may also be ethical issues regarding the ownership, consent, transparency, and accountability of data collection and use²³.
• - **The risk of technology addiction and reduced social skills**: AI-powered tools and platforms may create a dependency on technology that may affect students' attention span, motivation, and self-regulation. They may also reduce the opportunities for social interaction and collaboration that are essential for learning and development. Students may lose the ability or interest to communicate with other human beings or to engage in offline activities¹.
• - **The potential unemployment of teachers and educational staff**: AI-powered tools and platforms may replace some of the tasks or roles of teachers and educational staff, such as delivering content, grading assignments, or providing feedback. This may lead to unemployment or underemployment of these professionals, or to a loss of their autonomy, dignity, or identity¹.
• - **The gap between developed and developing countries in terms of infrastructure and access**: AI-powered tools and platforms may require advanced infrastructure and access that may not be available or affordable in some countries or regions. This may create or widen the gap between developed and developing countries in terms of educational quality, equity, and opportunity².
• - **The gender and economic inequalities in education**: AI-powered tools and platforms may reflect or reinforce the existing gender and economic inequalities in education. For example, AI may not be inclusive or representative of the diversity of learners in terms of their gender, culture, language, or background. AI may also favor those who have more resources or access to technology over those who do not².

Bing, 7/7/2023

(1) AI In The Classroom: Pros, Cons And The Role Of EdTech Companies - Forbes. https://www.forbes.com/sites/theyec/2023/02/21/ai-in-the-classroom-pros-cons-and-the-role-of-edtech-companies/.

(2) The challenges and opportunities of Artificial Intelligence in education. https://www.unesco.org/en/articles/challenges-and-opportunities-artificial-intelligence-education.

(3) Artificial intelligence in education | UNESCO. https://www.unesco.org/en/digital-education/artificial-intelligence.

(4) Artificial Intelligence (AI) in education: Impact & Examples - QuestionPro. https://www.questionpro.com/blog/ai-in-education/.

(5) What Challenges In Education Can AI Solve Today? - Forbes. https://www.forbes.com/sites/forbestechcouncil/2021/12/14/what-challenges-in-education-can-ai-solve-today/.

Yes, AI can help students with disabilities in various ways, such as:

• - **Improving accessibility in testing**: AI can use advanced speech synthesis technologies to provide high-quality text-to-speech voice for students who have visual impairments or reading difficulties. AI can also use natural language processing and machine learning to generate alternative formats of test content, such as images, graphs, or diagrams¹.
• - **Providing content descriptions and webpage interactions**: AI can use computer vision and natural language processing to automatically describe images, videos, or other visual content for students who have visual impairments. AI can also use speech recognition and natural language processing to enable students to interact with webpages through voice commands or questions²³.
• - **Automating tasks that require human intelligence**: AI can use various techniques such as speech and voice recognition, visual perception, and decision-making to automate tasks that may be challenging for students with disabilities. For example, AI can help students with hearing impairments to transcribe audio into text, or students with dyslexia to correct spelling and grammar errors²⁴.
• - **Pinpointing what methods of instruction will work best with any student and any disability**: AI can use data and algorithms to analyze the learning styles, preferences, and needs of each student, and to provide personalized feedback and instruction. AI can also use data and algorithms to identify hidden learning disabilities and to give reliable feedback²⁵.

Bing, 7/7/2023

(1) 3 Ways AI Can Help Students with Disabilities - EDUCAUSE. https://er.educause.edu/articles/2022/6/3-ways-ai-can-help-students-with-disabilities.

(2) Reimagining the Future of Accessible Education with AI. https://blogs.microsoft.com/accessibility/ai4aedugrants2021/.

(3) AI-Augmented Learning for Individuals with Disabilities: New Funding .... https://ies.ed.gov/blogs/research/post/ai-augmented-learning-for-individuals-with-disabilities-new-funding-opportunity-current-research-and-the-potential-for-improving-student-outcomes.

(4) Using Artificial Intelligence to Help Students with Learning .... https://www.thetechedvocate.org/using-artificial-intelligence-help-students-learning-disabilities-learn/.

(5) How Can Teachers Use AI to Help Students with Learning Disabilities .... https://alicebot.org/how-can-teachers-use-ai-to-help-students-with-learning-disabilities/.

Using AI to help students with disabilities also comes with some challenges, such as:

• - **The quality and availability of data**: AI relies on large and diverse datasets to function and improve. However, data on students with disabilities may be scarce, incomplete, or inaccurate. Data may also not reflect the diversity of students' needs, abilities, and backgrounds. Moreover, data may not be available or accessible to researchers or developers due to privacy or ethical issues¹.
• - **The bias and fairness of AI**: AI may inherit or amplify the existing biases and discrimination in education. For example, AI may not be inclusive or representative of the diversity of students with disabilities in terms of their gender, culture, language, or background. AI may also favor those who have more resources or access to technology over those who do not. Moreover, AI may not be transparent or accountable for its decisions or actions¹².
• - **The usability and accessibility of AI**: AI may not be user-friendly or accessible for students with disabilities. For example, AI may not have intuitive or adaptive interfaces that suit the preferences and needs of different users. AI may also not have clear or consistent instructions or feedback that help users understand how to use it effectively. Moreover, AI may not have robust or reliable performance that meets the expectations and goals of users¹³.
• - **The integration and evaluation of AI**: AI may not be integrated or evaluated effectively in educational settings. For example, AI may not align with the existing curricula, standards, or pedagogies that guide teaching and learning. AI may also not have sufficient evidence or support to demonstrate its effectiveness, efficiency, or impact on student outcomes. Moreover, AI may not have adequate monitoring or assessment mechanisms that ensure its quality, safety, or ethics¹⁴.

Bing, 7/7/2023

(1) 3 Ways AI Can Help Students with Disabilities - EDUCAUSE. https://er.educause.edu/articles/2022/6/3-ways-ai-can-help-students-with-disabilities.

(2) AI-Augmented Learning for Individuals with Disabilities: New Funding .... https://ies.ed.gov/blogs/research/post/ai-augmented-learning-for-individuals-with-disabilities-new-funding-opportunity-current-research-and-the-potential-for-improving-student-outcomes.

(3) Using Artificial Intelligence to Help Students with Learning .... https://www.thetechedvocate.org/using-artificial-intelligence-help-students-learning-disabilities-learn/.

(4) 7 Ways That Artificial Intelligence Helps Students Learn. https://www.theedadvocate.org/7-ways-that-artificial-intelligence-helps-students-learn/.

AI can be a powerful tool for improving education, but it can also create or exacerbate inequalities between rich and poor students. Here are some of the challenges and opportunities of using AI for education access and equity:

• - **The digital divide**: AI requires advanced infrastructure and connectivity that may not be available or affordable in some contexts. This may create or widen the gap between rich and poor students in terms of educational quality, equity, and opportunity. For example, students in rural areas or developing countries may not have access to reliable internet, devices, or electricity to use AI-powered tools and platforms. Moreover, students from low-income families may not be able to afford the cost of AI applications or services¹.
• - **The data divide**: AI relies on large and diverse datasets to function and improve. However, data on students may not reflect the diversity of their needs, abilities, and backgrounds. For example, students from minority groups, indigenous communities, or marginalized populations may not be represented or included in the data that is used to train or evaluate AI systems. Moreover, students from low-income families may not have access to the data that is used to personalize or enhance their learning².
• - **The skills divide**: AI may require new digital skills and competencies that may not be taught or learned in some contexts. This may create or widen the gap between rich and poor students in terms of their readiness and ability to use AI effectively and responsibly. For example, students in under-resourced schools or regions may not have access to quality education or training that prepares them for the AI-driven economy. Moreover, students from low-income families may not have access to the resources or support that helps them develop their digital literacy or critical thinking².
• - **The opportunity divide**: AI may create new opportunities and challenges for education and employment that may not be accessible or fair for some students. This may create or widen the gap between rich and poor students in terms of their outcomes and prospects. For example, students in affluent schools or regions may have access to more AI-powered tools and platforms that enhance their learning and career development. Moreover, students from high-income families may have access to more AI-related jobs or industries that offer higher wages or benefits².

However, AI can also be used to address these challenges and promote access and equity for all students. Here are some of the ways that AI can help:

• - **Improving accessibility and affordability**: AI can use various techniques such as speech synthesis, natural language processing, computer vision, and machine learning to provide accessible and affordable learning materials and experiences for students who face barriers due to distance, disability, language, or cost. For example, AI can help students with visual impairments to access text-to-speech voice or image descriptions, or students with hearing impairments to access speech-to-text transcription or sign language translation³.
• - **Providing personalization and differentiation**: AI can use data and algorithms to analyze the learning styles, preferences, and needs of each student, and to provide personalized feedback and instruction. AI can also use data and algorithms to differentiate the learning content, pace, and level for each student according to their abilities and goals. For example, AI can help students with learning difficulties to access adaptive assessments or remediation, or students with giftedness to access enrichment or acceleration³.
• - **Enhancing collaboration and inclusion**: AI can use various techniques such as natural language processing, speech recognition, and machine learning to facilitate collaboration and inclusion among students who have diverse backgrounds, cultures, languages, or perspectives. For example, AI can help students with different languages to communicate through translation or interpretation, or students with different cultures to understand through explanation or mediation³.
• - **Expanding opportunities and empowerment**: AI can use various techniques such as natural language processing, computer vision, and machine learning to expand opportunities and empowerment for students who have limited resources, access, or support. For example, AI can help students with low-income families to access scholarships or financial aid, or students with under-resourced schools to access mentors or tutors³.

Bing, 7/7/2023

(1) AI is making inequality worse | MIT Technology Review. https://www.technologyreview.com/2022/04/19/1049378/ai-inequality-problem/.

(2) How can AI support diversity, equity and inclusion?. https://www.weforum.org/agenda/2022/03/ai-support-diversity-equity-inclusion/.

(3) How Student-Led Initiatives Are Expanding Access and Equity in AI .... https://www.engineering.columbia.edu/news/how-student-led-initiatives-are-expanding-access-and-equity-ai.

AI is a complex and evolving technology that has many stakeholders and actors involved in its development, deployment, and governance. There is no simple or definitive answer to the question of who are the owners and controllers of AI, but here are some of the possible perspectives:

• - **The developers and researchers of AI**: These are the individuals and organizations that create, design, and improve AI systems, models, and algorithms. They may own or control the intellectual property rights, such as patents or copyrights, of their AI creations. They may also have the responsibility or accountability for ensuring the quality, safety, or ethics of their AI products or services¹.
• - **The providers and platforms of AI**: These are the individuals and organizations that offer, distribute, or host AI products or services, such as cloud computing, software as a service, or application programming interfaces. They may own or control the access, availability, or pricing of their AI offerings. They may also have the responsibility or accountability for ensuring the security, privacy, or compliance of their AI products or services².
• - **The users and consumers of AI**: These are the individuals and organizations that use, consume, or benefit from AI products or services, such as customers, employees, students, or citizens. They may own or control the data, feedback, or preferences that they provide to or receive from AI systems. They may also have the responsibility or accountability for ensuring the effectiveness, efficiency, or impact of their AI usage or consumption³.
• - **The regulators and policymakers of AI**: These are the individuals and organizations that regulate, oversee, or influence AI products or services, such as governments, agencies, standards bodies, or advocacy groups. They may own or control the rules, laws, or guidelines that apply to or affect AI systems. They may also have the responsibility or accountability for ensuring the fairness, transparency, or accountability of AI products or services⁴.

Bing, 7/7/2023

(1) Four Skills Every Successful AI Product Owner Should Possess - Forbes. https://www.forbes.com/sites/forbestechcouncil/2021/08/24/four-skills-every-successful-ai-product-owner-should-possess/.

(2) Generative AI: What Is It, Tools, Models, Applications and ... - Gartner. https://www.gartner.com/en/topics/generative-ai.

(3) AAIController | Unreal Engine Documentation. https://docs.unrealengine.com/en-US/API/Runtime/AIModule/AAIController/index.html.

(4) Leading owners of machine learning & AI patents 2013-2022 - Statista. https://www.statista.com/statistics/1032627/worldwide-machine-learning-and-ai-patent-owners-trend/.

AI is a powerful and transformative technology that has the potential to change democracy in profound ways. Here are some of the possible impacts and implications of AI for democracy:

• - **AI and the public sphere**: AI can affect the quality and diversity of information, communication, and deliberation in the public sphere. AI can enable new forms of participation, engagement, and expression for citizens, such as online platforms, chatbots, or digital assistants. AI can also enhance the transparency, accountability, and responsiveness of public institutions, such as governments, media, or civil society. However, AI can also pose threats to the public sphere, such as misinformation, disinformation, or manipulation. AI can generate or amplify false, misleading, or biased content, such as deepfakes, fake news, or propaganda. AI can also influence or interfere with public opinion, behavior, or elections, such as through social media bots, microtargeting, or cyberattacks¹².
• - **AI and election campaigns**: AI can affect the strategies and outcomes of election campaigns. AI can enable new ways of reaching and mobilizing voters, such as personalized messages, interactive platforms, or predictive analytics. AI can also enable new ways of monitoring and evaluating campaigns, such as sentiment analysis, opinion polls, or fact-checking. However, AI can also pose challenges to election campaigns, such as privacy, fairness, or security. AI can collect or exploit personal data of voters without their consent or awareness. AI can also create or exacerbate inequalities or biases among candidates or parties. AI can also compromise or sabotage the integrity or reliability of election systems³⁴.
• - **AI and public services**: AI can affect the delivery and quality of public services. AI can enable new ways of providing and accessing public services, such as automation, optimization, or personalization. AI can also enable new ways of improving and innovating public services, such as learning, adaptation, or collaboration. However, AI can also pose risks to public services, such as discrimination, exclusion, or error. AI can produce or reproduce unfair or harmful outcomes for certain groups or individuals based on their data or characteristics. AI can also exclude or marginalize some groups or individuals from public services due to their lack of access or skills. AI can also make mistakes or failures that may have serious consequences for public services⁵ .

Bing, 7/7/2023

(1) Artificial Intelligence and Democracy - Heinrich-Böll-Stiftung. https://il.boell.org/en/2022/01/06/artificial-intelligence-and-democracy.

(2) Why AI is a threat to democracy—and what we can do to stop it. https://www.technologyreview.com/2019/02/26/66043/why-ai-is-a-threat-to-democracyand-what-we-can-do-to-stop-it/.

(3) The Future of Democracy in the AI Era - Areo. https://areomagazine.com/2019/10/03/the-future-of-democracy-in-the-ai-era/.

(4) Artificial Intelligence and Democracy - London School of Economics and .... https://www.lse.ac.uk/Events/2022/05/202205231800/democracy.

(5) About AI & Democracy | Collections | F1000Research. https://f1000research.com/collections/aianddemocracy/about-this-collection.

AI does not inherently lend itself to fascism and oligarchy, but it can be used or abused by those who seek to establish or maintain such systems of government. Here are some of the possible ways that AI can be related to fascism and oligarchy:

• - **AI and fascism**: Fascism is a form of government characterized by a strong central rule that attempts to control and direct all aspects of individual life through coercion and repression. AI can be used by fascists to enhance their power and suppress their opponents. For example, AI can be used to monitor, manipulate, or censor the public sphere, such as through surveillance, propaganda, or disinformation. AI can also be used to target, discriminate, or persecute certain groups or individuals, such as through profiling, tracking, or violence¹².
• - **AI and oligarchy**: Oligarchy is a form of government characterized by a small group of people that have a disproportionate amount of wealth, power, or influence. AI can be used by oligarchs to consolidate their dominance and exploit their resources. For example, AI can be used to optimize their profits and interests, such as through automation, optimization, or personalization. AI can also be used to influence or interfere with the political system, such as through lobbying, campaigning, or hacking³.

However, AI can also be used to resist or challenge fascism and oligarchy. Here are some of the possible ways that AI can be related to democracy and equality:

• - **AI and democracy**: Democracy is a form of government characterized by the participation and representation of the people in the decision-making process. AI can be used by democrats to enhance their rights and responsibilities. For example, AI can be used to facilitate and improve the public sphere, such as through education, deliberation, or fact-checking. AI can also be used to enable and empower the political system, such as through voting, accountability, or transparency .
• - **AI and equality**: Equality is a principle that asserts that all people are entitled to fair and equal treatment and opportunities. AI can be used by egalitarians to promote and protect their dignity and diversity. For example, AI can be used to reduce or eliminate bias and discrimination, such as through fairness, inclusion, or justice. AI can also be used to expand or improve access and opportunity, such as through accessibility, affordability, or innovation.

Bing, 7/7/2023

(1) Artificial intelligence is ripe for abuse, tech researcher warns: 'a .... https://www.theguardian.com/technology/2017/mar/13/artificial-intelligence-ai-abuses-fascism-donald-trump.

(2) America is now in fascism’s legal phase - The Guardian. https://www.theguardian.com/world/2021/dec/22/america-fascism-legal-phase.

(3) Difference Between Totalitarianism, Authoritarianism, Fascism - ThoughtCo. https://www.thoughtco.com/totalitarianism-authoritarianism-fascism-4147699.