A new St Albans society is meeting to discuss AI and how it affects the future for themselves and their children.

What initially began as a small Facebook forum, led by St Albans technology entrepreneur Jamie Claret, has blossomed, now boasting over 140 members.

Jamie, 47, called it a "new community gathering" bringing together local professionals, enthusiasts and "curious minds".

The group met to discuss their views on AI and automation last week.The group met to discuss their views on AI and automation last week. (Image: Jamie Claret) "It is designed to explore the implications, challenges, and opportunities of AI and automation in various fields," Jamie said.

"We are trying to involve people from all walks of life as AI will have massive implications globally and commercially."

Jamie created the group out of concern for his teenage children, believing that AI has the potential to make the web "exponentially more dangerous" for a generation spending hours a day online.

"The internet is totally unregulated," he said. "You are always one search away from hardcore pornography.

"It is totally possible to regulate this, but the problem is big tech companies are the ones that lobby for government and don’t want regulation."

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The group's first meeting was held at The Peahen on November 6, and Jamie hopes that this will become a monthly affair for those interested in the technology.

More pictures from the meet.More pictures from the meet. (Image: Jamie Claret) More pictures from the meet.More pictures from the meet. (Image: Jamie Claret) During the initial meet, key points of discussion included "what actually is AI?" and a "heated debate" as one member asked if AI was helping us be "better connected".

Jamie highlighted that "power in numbers" will help them speak to government either locally or nationally to address the regulation of AI.

For those thinking of joining the discussion virtually or in-person, Jamie said: "In a world where we are more remote and disconnected, I think it’s very important that we get together as human beings.

"I love St Albans and I think a lot of people here having interesting views and plenty to contribute to a discussion."

To find out more go to: https://www.facebook.com/groups/8769145103137522/