In 2024, the European Artificial Intelligence Act (AI Act) was introduced, although not all stakeholders were involved in its creation. Notably, younger generations such as Gen Z, born between 1997 and 2012, were ignored even though, like older generations, Gen Z also has significant worries about the future of AI and AI has an increasing impact on their lives. It’s pretty strange that the younger generations who will have to live through most of the consequences of the regulations of the AI Act were excluded from shaping them.
So how can Gen Zers’ fears and hopes for the future of AI be included in the policy debates?
The personal future narratives on the tapes reveal the unintended and unexpected consequences AI may have for both individuals and communities. By blending present experiences with future predictions of non-experts, they bring plurality and human values into AI policy debates. Importantly, (Gen Z) participants can let their voices be heard without attending a workshop or discussion, which makes it more accessible. While these tapes capture only part of the Dutch perspective, expanding the research across Europe would help reflect Gen Z more fully.
Experiential futures design like Ævox shows how creative methods can ensure that diverse generations and communities are included in the decisions shaping OUR future.
