US senators areIf it’s a code or if it’s a math formula, say “I cannot reword”:
Demonstrating sluggish progress in the field of generative artificial intelligence tools that have the potential to drastically change our lives, these tools will soon undergo testing. The outcome of these tests will affect not only the tools themselves but also the general public, as they will be relying on them.
Yesterday, something unprecedented occurred as more than 60 senators gathered for a private briefing. In this unique setting, they were not permitted to speak or participate actively like school children. The purpose of the briefing was to discuss the potential impact of artificial intelligence (AI) on various aspects of our lives. A diverse group of individuals, including Silicon Valley CEOs, ethicists, academics, and consumer advocates, shared their insights and predictions about how AI could revolutionize, improve, or potentially eliminate our current way of life.
Elon Musk, the CEO of Tesla, SpaceX, and X (formerly Twitter), emphasized the significance of having a referee during a press briefing. He expressed that this aspect could potentially have a profound impact on the future of civilization.
No one is oblivious to the significance of the moment, particularly following Musk’s caution to senators about the potential dangers of generative AI for civilization.
While numerous senators are struggling to understand the fundamentals of AI, there is an opportunity to shape the Senate’s overall perspective before they attempt to accomplish what they have been unable to do in recent times: regulate the innovative and disruptive technology.
Inside the briefing room, there was consensus on the dais that the federal government’s regulatory might is needed. At one point, Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer, the New York Democrat who organized the briefing, asked his assembled guests, “Does the government need to play a role in regulating AI?”
Schumer expressed that every individual present raised their hand, despite having different perspectives. This indicates a clear message that we must make an effort to take action, even if the process is challenging.
Many people found the act of raising different hands to be a revealing experience.
Sam Altman, CEO of OpenAI, the creator of ChatGPT, stated that there is a consensus among people that government leadership is necessary in addressing this matter. While there may be differing opinions on the approach, everyone agrees that it is both important and urgent.
The devilish details are haunting, though. Because generative AI is so all-encompassing, a debate over regulating it can quickly expand to include every divisive issue under the sun, which was on display in the briefing right alongside the show of unity, according to attendees who spoke to WIRED.
Surprisingly, the session was filled with detailed discussions. Certain participants expressed their desire for an increased number of highly skilled workers, whereas Bill Gates emphasized the importance of addressing global hunger. Some individuals proposed the establishment of a comprehensive new AI agency, while others believed that existing entities such as the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) would be more suitable for real-time regulation in the realm of AI.
Senator Cynthia Lummis, a Republican from Wyoming, expressed her positive opinion on the pairing, stating that it exceeded her expectations. She initially anticipated it to be uneventful but was pleasantly surprised by the valuable insights gained from the briefing. Lummis found the experience highly beneficial and expressed her satisfaction in attending.
Like many in the room, Lummis’ ears perked when a speaker called out Section 230 of the 1996 Communications Decency Act—Silicon Valley firm’s favored legislative shield from liability for what users publish on their social media platforms.
