President Joe Biden’s executive order on artificial intelligence (AI) was signed at a White House ceremony on Monday, addressing various concerns related to the fast-moving technology. The 111-page order covers priorities such as cybersecurity, global competition, discrimination, and oversight of advanced AI systems. It has garnered support from both the tech industry and its critics, highlighting its significance.
Observers have identified three major groups influencing AI policy: progressives, who view AI as a threat to Americans due to job security, civil rights, and racial bias; “longtermists,” who focus on the technology’s potential for harm, such as producing deadly bioweapons; and AI hawks, who are concerned about national security and geopolitical dominance.
While these groups often have conflicting views, Biden’s executive order manages to address their concerns to some extent. The comprehensive nature of the order reflects an attempt by the White House to accommodate various AI governance constituencies without upsetting them. However, the order’s extensive provisions have raised concerns about its implementability and potential overwhelm for agencies.
The executive order encompasses three main goals. It outlines steps federal agencies can take to address real-world problems associated with AI, such as job losses, discrimination in the banking and housing sectors, and data privacy. It also requires companies working on advanced AI systems to provide regular progress reports to Washington, emphasizing the existential risks of cutting-edge AI models. Lastly, the order focuses on national security by prioritizing cybersecurity measures and enhancing America’s global competitiveness in AI.
The Biden administration’s decision to address AI came in part as a response to the politics surrounding social media regulation. By proactively shaping AI’s development, the administration aims to preserve trust in democracy and protect individual rights. However, the order’s wide-ranging scope is indicative of AI’s pervasive impact and the need for comprehensive action.
While political considerations may have influenced some provisions, many of them find support among different factions involved in AI governance. The executive order is seen as a positive step, but it is not intended to replace congressional action. A functioning Congress that takes an active role in AI policy is necessary.
In conclusion, President Biden’s executive order on AI reflects a comprehensive and multifaceted approach to address concerns related to the technology. It aims to balance the interests of different factions involved in AI governance while emphasizing the importance of congressional action. The order’s implementability and the ability of agencies to handle the associated workload remain potential challenges.
