The Gradient: Perspectives on AI Iason Gabriel: Value Alignment and the Ethics of Advanced AI Systems
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Nov 26, 2025 Iason Gabriel, a philosopher and senior staff research scientist at Google DeepMind, delves into the complexities of AI ethics and value alignment. He discusses how AI systems can redefine social norms and the importance of aligning technology with human values. The conversation explores the risks of personalization, emphasizing the need for ethical guardrails. Gabriel also examines the role of technologists as world-makers, advocating for a balance between innovation and responsibility. His insights challenge us to think critically about the future of AI and its social impacts.
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Start From Equal Human Value
- Iason Gabriel grounds moral inquiry in the equal value of human life and basic rights.
- He builds ethical frameworks from respect and cooperation rather than sweeping ideal visions.
Civility Plus Contestation Produces Better Outcomes
- Gabriel accepts contestation but argues fair process plus contestation yields better shared principles.
- He warns that adopting only a conflict view of politics narrows what cooperative futures seem possible.
Alignment Must Fit Social Contexts
- Overlapping consensus procedures should admit culturally diverse outputs rather than enforcing a single liberal ideal.
- Gabriel emphasizes flexible alignment that adapts to social contexts like hospitals or criminal justice systems.
