Popularization of Science

Popularization of Science

A Framework for Leveraging Artificial Intelligence in Poverty Reduction through Social Innovation: A Meta-Synthesis Approach

Authors
Elham Eyvazzadeh 1
Ali Asghar Sadabadi 2
Arnoosh Shakeri 3
1 Ph.D. Candidate in Technology Management, Department of Technology Management, Faculty of Management and Economics, Science and Research Branch, Islamic Azad University, Tehran, Iran
2 Assistant Professor, Department of Science and Technology Policy, Institute for Science and Technology Studies, Shahid Beheshti University, Tehran, Iran
3 Assistant Professor, Department of Technology Management, Faculty of Management and Economics, Science and Research Branch, Islamic Azad University, Tehran, Iran.
10.22034/popsci.2025.499231.1391
Abstract
Subject: Today, poverty affects a vast number of people around the world and has been designated as the first priority among the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). In this context, revitalizing economic growth, adopting effective policies, and leveraging social and technological innovations are considered key strategies for achieving this critical objective. While traditional welfare programs and direct financial assistance often face challenges such as limited scalability, inefficient resource allocation, and inaccurate identification of beneficiaries, the use of artificial intelligence (AI) tools—with their ability to analyze large volumes of data, detect hidden patterns, and predict future trends—offers the potential for more precise targeting, optimized resource allocation, and enhanced effectiveness of social interventions aimed at combating poverty.
Objective: The main objective of this research is to propose a framework based on social innovation and the sustainable development model for harnessing artificial intelligence in poverty reduction.
Method: This study is applied in purpose and document-based in data collection. It adopts a qualitative research approach, specifically employing the meta-synthesis method. Through a systematic analysis of 17 reputable academic articles from the Web of Science database, this study identifies and categorizes the dimensions of AI applications in poverty reduction, drawing on the perspectives of social innovation and the sustainable development model.
Findings and Results: The findings indicate that artificial intelligence, through the three main dimensions of the sustainable development model—social, economic, and environmental—can contribute to reducing inequalities and promoting digital justice. The study emphasizes that social innovation can serve as an effective complement to AI in the fight against poverty. AI can significantly aid in accurately identifying poverty patterns, improving access to public services, empowering individuals to meet social needs, enhancing social inclusion, and ultimately advancing the Sustainable Development Goals, particularly the eradication of poverty.
Keywords
Sustainable Development Goals
Social Inclusion
Poverty Reduction
Social Innovation
Artificial Intelligence
Subjects
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