What is a short-term risk associated with AI systems?

The correct answer highlights a significant concern in the deployment of AI systems: the reflection of human biases. AI systems learn from the data they are trained on, which often contains biases inherent in the human decisions and interactions from which that data is derived. As a result, if these biases are not addressed, AI may perpetuate or even amplify existing inequalities and prejudices present in society. This raises ethical dilemmas and practical risks in various applications, such as hiring practices, law enforcement, and lending decisions.

In contrast, the other options do not accurately represent short-term risks. Independence from human biases would suggest a level of objectivity and fairness that AI systems currently lack, while self-aware AI is largely hypothetical and not an immediate concern. Though AI can create new job opportunities, this is generally seen as a long-term effect rather than a direct short-term risk associated with the technology.