41: AI Policy under the Trump Administration, with Neil Chilson
Dec 20, 2024
auto_awesome
Neil Chilson, Head of AI Policy at the Abundance Institute, brings nearly two decades of policy expertise to the conversation. He discusses crucial AI policy strategies in the U.S. versus the EU, spotlighting the balance between strict regulations and innovation. Chilson critiques past and potential shifts in AI policies under different administrations while emphasizing the need for clear federal guidelines. He explores the challenges of scaling tech beyond Silicon Valley and touches on state versus federal legislation impacts on AI and privacy.
The podcast contrasts the EU's precautionary principle with the U.S.'s permissionless approach to AI regulation, highlighting differing impacts on innovation.
Discussing existential risks posed by AI, the conversation emphasizes the absence of immediate threats from current technologies compared to speculative fears.
The potential shift in AI policy from a Biden to a Trump administration could favor deregulation and technological competitiveness over algorithmic risk concerns.
Deep dives
The Precautionary Principle vs. Permissionless Innovation
The podcast discusses contrasting approaches to AI regulation, exemplified by the precautionary principle favored by the EU and a more permissionless approach typically found in the U.S. The precautionary principle suggests that new technologies should be rigorously vetted by the government before being released to ensure safety and mitigate risks. In contrast, the permissionless approach allows innovators to develop and deploy technologies without prior government approval, fostering rapid innovation and market adaptation. The host argues that treating AI like a medical device may inhibit innovation, as many AI applications do not pose the same risks as pharmaceuticals or medical devices.
Existential Risks and Speculative Concerns
A central topic in the episode is the debate surrounding potential existential risks posed by AI, with experts like Elon Musk highlighting the possibility of catastrophic scenarios. However, the discussion points out that the current generation of AI technologies does not present an imminent existential threat, as most applications are not capable of causing irreversible harm. The podcast emphasizes that regulatory responses should be based on evidence and clear risks, rather than speculative fears that lack a solid foundation. By focusing on speculative risks, there is a danger of stifling innovation and hindering beneficial advancements in AI.
Regulatory Responses and Market Dynamics
The podcast highlights that many existing regulations are based on hypothetical risks rather than addressing actual, measurable harms. For example, the EU AI Act categorizes cognitive behavioral manipulation and emotional recognition in workplaces as unacceptable risks, despite their prevalence in other sectors like social media. The discussion argues that regulations should consider market impacts and benefits of innovations rather than solely focusing on perceived risks. Abundant regulation may lead to inefficiencies and unintended consequences, such as limiting small startups while favoring established companies that can afford compliance.
The Political Landscape Shift in AI Regulation
A significant theme in the podcast is the expected shift in AI policy with the transition from the Biden administration to a potential Trump administration. The Biden administration has taken a more regulatory approach, focused on algorithmic bias and misinformation, while the Trump administration may prioritize technological competitiveness and innovation. The podcast suggests that under Trump, policies may shift away from algorithmic harm and instead emphasize maintaining U.S. technological supremacy, particularly concerning China. This change could lead to more support for businesses and a deregulatory environment, affecting how AI technologies are developed and adopted.
Navigating Special Interests and the Future of AI
The conversation delves into the challenge of navigating special interest groups that may emerge in response to AI developments. As AI technologies evolve, there is concern about established companies lobbying for regulations that inadvertently stifle competition by creating barriers for newcomers. Additionally, the podcast points out that backlash against AI could stem from its impact on jobs and labor markets, particularly in sectors negatively affected by automation. Observing how stakeholders react and adapt to technological advancements will be crucial in shaping the regulatory landscape as AI continues to mature.
The most important decision President Trump may face is how to regulate artificial intelligence (AI). Neil Chilson, Head of AI Policy at the Abundance Institute, is a policy insider with nearly two decades of experience inside the halls of power. Neil walks us through how to think about the tradeoffs and approaches to capturing the enormous potential upside of artificial intelligence while protecting against the downside risks.
—
Have questions or feedback about this episode? Drop us a note at Onward@Fundrise.com.
Onward is hosted by Ben Miller, co-founder and CEO of Fundrise. Podcast production by The Podcast Consultant. Music by Seaplane Armada.
About Fundrise
With over 2 million users, Fundrise is America's largest direct-to-investor alternative asset investment platform. Since 2012, our mission has been to build a better financial system by empowering the individual. We make it easier and more efficient than ever for anyone to invest in institutional-quality private alternative assets — all at the touch of a button.
Please see fundrise.com/oc for more information on all of the Fundrise-sponsored investment funds and products, including each fund’s offering document(s).
Want to see the specific assets that make up and power Fundrise portfolios? Check out our active and past projects at www.fundrise.com/assets.
Get the Snipd podcast app
Unlock the knowledge in podcasts with the podcast player of the future.
AI-powered podcast player
Listen to all your favourite podcasts with AI-powered features
Discover highlights
Listen to the best highlights from the podcasts you love and dive into the full episode
Save any moment
Hear something you like? Tap your headphones to save it with AI-generated key takeaways
Share & Export
Send highlights to Twitter, WhatsApp or export them to Notion, Readwise & more
AI-powered podcast player
Listen to all your favourite podcasts with AI-powered features
Discover highlights
Listen to the best highlights from the podcasts you love and dive into the full episode