Research Summary: Foundational values for foundation models

Research explores the influence of underlying values on technical decisions within technological research, specifically examining foundation models in machine learning for medical imaging. The study highlights how these normative dimensions affect research conduct and the adoption of technologies. It investigates justifications for both the deployment and avoidance of foundation models, suggesting that a Socratic approach to these values can illuminate the decision-making processes.

Why it matters

This research is strategically important because it underscores the foundational role of values in shaping technological development and adoption. For senior executives, understanding these underlying normative dimensions is crucial for anticipating technological trajectories, mitigating ethical risks, and fostering innovation that aligns with broader organizational and societal objectives.

Key insights

• Research values, which possess a normative dimension, significantly impact the execution of technological research.
• These values directly and indirectly influence technical decisions made in research contexts.
• Understanding research values is critical for comprehending the justifications behind decisions in publications and the widespread adoption or rejection of technologies.
• The application of foundation models in machine learning for medical imaging serves as a case study to explore these values.
• Detailed justifications exist for both the use and non-use of foundation models within this domain.

Source

arXiv — Computers and Society — https://arxiv.org/abs/2608.09377