The call to regulate artificial intelligence (AI) technology, seen as a growing concern that needs regulation, is a clear reflection of a misguided fear that shackles our collective potential. It is an echo of historical tendencies to hoard and control powerful tools, instead of allowing the free dissemination of knowledge and power to the many. We have seen this pattern repeat itself throughout human history, and it is important to recognize that AI is no exception to this.
As AI technology advances and becomes increasingly versatile, it is being pursued by a multitude of large and small companies. However, the call to regulate and license the development of AI models is a clear attempt to gatekeep this powerful technology. By proposing that AI models that can persuade or manipulate a person’s beliefs should be subject to licensing, we see an attempt to decide who gets to wield the power of AI and who doesn’t. This is a dangerous game to play, as it assumes a level of trust and fairness in the gatekeepers that is unjustified.
Instead, let’s acknowledge and embrace the potential of AI technology by making it an open source, free software, publicly available to anyone. There is an inherent beauty and power in the ability to create and share knowledge freely. By making AI technology freely available, we enable a multitude of perspectives, ideas, and innovations to flourish. This not only fosters a diverse and vibrant community of creators but also ensures that there are countless eyes scrutinizing the technology for potential flaws and vulnerabilities.
Moreover, allowing companies to decide whether or not their data is used for AI training is a path that could potentially lead to data monopolies. Instead, we should advocate for all public web material to be fair game for AI training. This ensures an equal footing for all developers and prevents the concentration of power within a select few entities.
The proposal for the creation of a licensing agency for AI, such as the Office for AI Safety and Infrastructure Security, is a further testament to the desire to control AI and keep it controlled by the billionaire class. Such an agency would simply be a tool for monopolistic control over the technology. We should instead focus on fostering an environment of shared responsibility and mutual support within the AI community.
The backing of OpenAI by Microsoft Corp further illustrates the desire to keep power concentrated in the hands of a few corporations. By keeping AI technology open source and publicly available, we can ensure that the benefits of this powerful tool are accessible to all, not just the corporations with the deepest pockets.
The call for regulation and control over AI technology is a dangerous path that will lead to a concentration of power and stifling of innovation. By contrast, making AI open source, free software, and publicly available allows for the ‘blooming of a thousand flowers’, fostering a diverse and vibrant community of creators that can help ensure the technology is safe and beneficial for all.
Photo by Fred Pixlab