The Importance of Building an AI Basic Model Reflecting Japanese Culture

On April 15, it was reported that the expert meeting of the Ministry of Internal Affairs and Communications of Japan released the draft report on information and communication policies on the 14th, requiring that in order to facilitate the use of the Japanese, efforts should be made to build an AI basic model reflecting Japanese culture. This is because if AI’s learning data focuses on British and American culture, the accuracy of answers may decrease when used in Japan. The draft also emphasizes the importance of improving Japan’s research and development environment in the increasingly fierce competition for AI related talents. The draft also requires working together with the international community to promote the rules for building an online virtual space “metaverse”. (Golden Ten)

Japan: Committed to building AI basic models that reflect Japanese culture

On April 15, 2021, the Ministry of Internal Affairs and Communications of Japan released a draft report on information and communication policies that highlighted the importance of building an AI basic model reflecting Japanese culture. The report explained that AI has become an essential technology in many areas, from healthcare and finance to transportation and manufacturing. As such, it is critical to ensure that AI systems are accurate and effective when used in Japan.

The Significance of Culture in AI Systems

The use of AI systems in Japan has been increasing steadily in recent years, and with it, concerns about cultural biases in the learning data used to develop these systems. The report emphasizes that AI’s learning data must be diverse and inclusive, accurately reflecting the culture and unique needs of Japan. If AI’s learning data focuses solely on British and American culture, for example, the accuracy of answers may decrease when used in Japan.
The report explains that Japan’s culture is unique, and it is essential to develop an AI basic model that reflects that. Japanese culture is often characterized as being collectivistic and emphasizing group harmony, politeness, and respect for authority. An AI system built to understand the culture and values of America or the United Kingdom may not necessarily understand the nuances of Japanese social expectations.

Enhancing Research and Development Environment

The report further highlights the importance of improving Japan’s research and development environment in the increasingly fierce competition for AI-related talents. With the proliferation of AI technology globally, more countries are investing heavily in AI, making this a highly competitive area. Japan must ensure that its research and development environment is conducive to attracting and retaining talented professionals who can build effective AI systems.
The report identifies several areas in which Japan can improve its R&D environment to maintain its competitive edge in AI. For example, the report emphasizes the need to promote research collaboration between industry, academia, and government. Additionally, the Ministry of Education, Culture, Sports, Science, and Technology (MEXT) should provide financial and institutional support to encourage more research in AI.

Building an Online Virtual Space “Metaverse”

The report also requires collaborating with the international community to promote the rules for building an online virtual space “metaverse.” In the metaverse, people can interact with one another in a virtual world, and it is becoming an increasingly popular area of research in the tech industry. The report highlights the need for Japan to participate in global discussions on metaverse development to ensure that Japan’s voice is heard in these conversations.
The metaverse presents many opportunities, from developing new economic models to improving communication and collaboration between people across the world. As such, the report strongly encourages Japan to take an active role in shaping the metaverse’s development and to work collaboratively with other international stakeholders.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the report by the Ministry of Internal Affairs and Communications of Japan underscores the need to build an AI basic model reflecting Japanese culture. The report recognizes that AI is a critical technology permeating many aspects of life in Japan and urges the need to ensure that AI systems accurately reflect and incorporate the unique values and norms of Japanese society. Additionally, the report emphasizes the importance of enhancing Japan’s research and development environment to maintain its competitive edge in the AI area.

FAQs

1. Why is it important to reflect Japanese culture in AI systems?
– Accurately reflecting Japanese culture in AI systems ensures that they are effective and can deliver accurate responses when used in Japan.
2. What is the metaverse, and why is it essential to develop rules for its creation?
– The metaverse is a virtual world where people can interact with one another, and it is essential to develop rules to ensure that it is built ethically and responsibly.
3. What kind of improvements can be made to Japan’s research and development environment?
– Japan can improve its research and development environment by promoting research collaboration between industry, academia, and government and providing financial and institutional support to encourage more research in AI.