

“The Sorry State of AI X-Risk Advocacy, and Thoughts on Doing Better” by Thane Ruthenis
7 snips Feb 26, 2025
Thane Ruthenis, an insightful author focused on AI risk advocacy, shares his thoughts on improving communication strategies. He discusses the limitations of traditional persuasion techniques when addressing knowledgeable audiences. Instead, he emphasizes the power of framing to engage individuals with a deep understanding of AI issues. Thane proposes innovative outreach through popular media to better educate the public on AI risks and mobilize support for safety initiatives. This perspective challenges conventional methods, urging a fresh approach to AI advocacy.
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Target Audience Shift
- Stop persuading ML researchers, US policymakers, and internet users about AI risk.
- These groups have largely formed their opinions, and further efforts will likely be ineffective.
Untapped Public Potential
- The general public is a larger, more politically relevant demographic for AI risk advocacy.
- They are largely unaware of AI's potential dangers and more receptive to basic explanations.
Reaching the Public
- Reach the general public through comedians, newspapers, podcasts, and public figures.
- Frame AI risk in relatable terms, emphasizing potential negative consequences of uncontrolled AI.