Is there a right way to regulate AI? (w. Helen Toner)
Aug 21, 2024
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Helen Toner, director of strategy and foundational research grants at the Center of Security and Emerging Technology and a former OpenAI board member, dives deep into the intricacies of AI regulation. She discusses the need for robust external oversight versus self-regulation by AI firms. The conversation highlights how existing laws interact with emerging AI technologies and emphasizes the importance of trust and accountability. Toner also explores the distinct challenges faced by startups in navigating this evolving regulatory landscape.
Self-regulation in AI is seen as insufficient, necessitating cooperation with various stakeholders to navigate regulatory complexities and ensure safety.
Concerns about overreaching AI regulations threaten innovation, highlighting the need for a balanced approach through collaboration with policymakers and transparency.
Deep dives
The Necessity of AI Regulation
Self-regulation in AI development is largely viewed as insufficient for ensuring the safe and responsible advancement of artificial intelligence technologies. Companies aiming to build highly advanced AI systems, particularly artificial general intelligence, are encouraged to engage with a variety of stakeholders to navigate the complexities of regulation. It is acknowledged that existing regulations across sectors, such as healthcare and finance, already govern AI applications, emphasizing that there isn't an exclusive AI regulatory framework. The conversation stresses the need for careful consideration and dialogue regarding how regulations could evolve to address both innovation and public safety.
Understanding Concerns About AI Regulation
Concerns about AI regulation stem from a fear of potentially overreaching policies that could stifle innovation, as some historical instances of regulation have negatively impacted projects. For example, environmental reviews can delay essential green energy projects, and such experiences contribute to trepidation about regulatory measures in AI. However, it is important to view regulation as a spectrum—balancing between overreach and under-regulation—rather than as a binary choice. A more collaborative approach with policymakers can lead to balanced regulations that provide necessary oversight without hampering progress.
Engagement Strategies for AI Companies
AI companies are encouraged to actively participate in dialogues with government officials and regulatory bodies to foster better understanding and collaboration. Developing relationships and transparency with policymakers is crucial, as many officials seek industry expertise to craft informed regulations. Startups should prioritize careful documentation of their processes and decisions, especially if they operate in high-scrutiny sectors. By being proactive and engaged, smaller companies can influence policy outcomes and better prepare for future regulations.
What is the right way to regulate AI? There appears to be as many different answers to that as there are regulators. On today's episode of Equity, we're bringing you a live interview from TechCrunch's recent Strictly VC event. Equity co-host Becca Szkutak sat down with Helen Toner, the director of strategy and foundational research grants from the Center of Security and Emerging Technology and a former board member of OpenAI. The pair discussed companies' ability to self-regulate, what impact regulation could have on startup innovation and so much more.
Equity is TechCrunch’s flagship podcast, produced by Theresa Loconsolo, and posts every Wednesday and Friday. Subscribe to us on Apple Podcasts, Overcast, Spotify and all the casts.
You also can follow Equity on X and Threads, at @EquityPod. For the full episode transcript, for those who prefer reading over listening, check out our full archive of episodes over at Simplecast.
Credits: Equity is produced by Theresa Loconsolo with editing by Kell. Bryce Durbin is our Illustrator. We'd also like to thank the audience development team and Henry Pickavet, who manages TechCrunch audio products.
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