Human Alternatives refers to the option for individuals to interact with a human, rather than exclusively relying on an AI System. This choice ensures people retain a sense of autonomy, even when advanced technologies are part of everyday services.
This concept is crucial for maintaining human dignity, especially in situations where personal data, emotional support, or critical life decisions are involved. By allowing users to bypass purely automated processes, Human Alternatives help prevent hidden bias and promote accountability, ensuring that real people can intervene when needed. They also protect the right to question or challenge algorithmic decisions, keeping humans in the loop of oversight and responsibility. Legal frameworks can reinforce the availability of human review to respect privacy and uphold human rights. Upholding these safeguards is not merely a convenience but a moral obligation to preserve user welfare and trust in AI-driven environments.
Disclaimer: Our global network of contributors to the AI & Human Rights Index is currently writing these articles and glossary entries. This particular page is currently in the recruitment and research stage. Please return later to see where this page is in the editorial workflow. Thank you! We look forward to learning with and from you.
