Artificial Intelligence and Implications for Public PolicySamantha Hautea

Are Self-Aware AIs an Issue?

Issues in Artificial Intelligence

● AI Research and Development ● AI Usage● Potential for Disruption● “New Manhattan Project”

AI Research and Development

Where will we invest our R&D?Who monitors AI development?Who ensures compliance with safety standards?

AI Usage

Who is using AI?When and how can AI be used?Who takes responsibility when an AI malfunctions?

Potential for Disruption

How will AI change how work is done in some sectors?Who will be affected by this change?Will it improve or increase inequality?

“New Manhattan Project”

Will better AIs become the new source of global power?What advantages does being the first to develop AI have?

Potential Policy Solutions for AI

I. Regulation

Institute government directives in order to restrict operations for AI developers.● Not practical in AI development. Process is

not yet well-defined, actors indistinguishable from other tech companies.

● Regulations slow development process and produce incentive for illegal activity.

II. Standard-Setting

Safety frameworks developed and vetted (by peers, policymakers, etc) to provide clear and proven guidelines for AI researchers.● Guidelines reduce costs for private R&D to

decide on ‘ethical’ direction for research.● Must reach consensus to come up with

these standards, and keep them up to date.

III. Public Policy/Funding

Allocate resources (cash, talent, technology) to boost projects that meet beneficial/safe criteria.● Would allow benefits from projects to go to

the public.● Requires significantly bigger investment in

public funding than is currently present. ● AI research must be identified as important.

ConclusionsWith strong private interest, it is not a question of “if” but “when” AI will advance.● Strong guidelines and rapid, publicly

supported development can minimize risks. ● Provide incentives to private developers, and

disincentives for harmful use of AI. ● Work to foster international collaboration,

instead of proprietary ownership.