‘Cautious yet optimistic’: Commerce Dept. weighs in on open AI models
Jul 30, 2024
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Alan Davidson, Assistant Commerce Secretary and head of the National Telecommunications and Information Administration, discusses the Biden administration's cautious support for open AI models amidst safety concerns. He highlights the necessity for equitable access and the importance of global collaboration on AI regulation. Davidson also addresses the tension between ensuring security and maintaining openness, suggesting that increased researcher involvement can enhance safety. Lastly, he touches on bipartisan support for AI policy as the upcoming election looms.
The Biden administration supports open AI models to promote accessibility and competition among developers while monitoring associated risks.
Emphasizing the need for international collaboration, the U.S. seeks to harmonize AI regulation with allies to ensure responsible development.
Deep dives
Support for Open AI Models
The Biden administration has taken a stance in favor of open AI models, recognizing the accessibility and democratization they provide. This decision stems from a comprehensive evaluation of the risks and benefits associated with these models, particularly their potential to foster greater competition among developers. By allowing more developers to access advanced AI technology, the government aims to prevent a few dominant tech companies from monopolizing this space and ensure equitable opportunities for innovators worldwide. However, the administration acknowledges the necessity of monitoring these models to mitigate potential risks associated with their open availability.
Balancing Risks and Benefits
In exploring the balance of risks and benefits of open AI models, the report highlights the need for a deeper understanding of the marginal impacts of openness. The government emphasizes the importance of ongoing research to quantify the risks associated with open versus closed models. This effort is critical as it may guide future policies, ensuring that the benefits of openness are not overshadowed by the potential for misuse. By promoting transparency and allowing broader scrutiny of AI systems, the administration believes that open models can ultimately lead to safer, more reliable technologies.
International Collaboration on AI Regulation
The report emphasizes the urgency for international collaboration in AI regulation, with a focus on harmonizing approaches among allied nations. The U.S. government is actively working with partners, notably within the G7 and OECD frameworks, to establish a cohesive strategy for managing AI technologies globally. This collaboration is seen as essential, considering the borderless nature of AI development and the need for shared commitments to safety and innovation. By aligning with global partners, the administration aims to position the U.S. as a leader in responsible AI development while addressing concerns about regulatory gaps that other countries may exploit.
There’s an ongoing debate over powerful AI models: open v. closed. The Biden administration has been grappling for months with where it stands on this issue and, in a report released on Tuesday, came out in support of open models — at least for now. On POLITICO Tech, host Steven Overly sits down with Assistant Commerce Secretary Alan Davidson, the head of the National Telecommunications and Information Administration, to discuss the new position and why the government still worries about risks.