#168 Ian Bremmer on Regulating AI for a Safer Future

PODCAST:Eye On A.I.
TITLE:#168 Ian Bremmer on Regulating AI for a Safer Future
DATE:2024-02-07 00:00:00
URL:
MODEL:gpt-4-gizmo


In the "Eye on AI" podcast episode titled "#168 Ian Bremmer on Regulating AI for a Safer Future," political scientist Ian Bremmer discusses the urgent need for regulating artificial intelligence (AI) and the complexities involved in establishing a global regulatory framework. Bremmer highlights the significant challenges in governing AI due to its rapid development and the reluctance of tech companies to slow down their pace of innovation. The conversation touches upon the concept of a "techno-polar world," where tech companies essentially operate as sovereign entities, making key decisions on AI development and deployment.

Bremmer elaborates on the idea of a three-tier regulatory framework proposed in a piece he co-authored with Mustafa Suleiman for Foreign Affairs. He acknowledges that the field of AI is evolving quickly, and some regulatory efforts have been made since the publication of their article. These efforts are informed by the article's insights, signifying the first time in Bremmer's career that he sees his work directly influencing policy.

The podcast delves into the comparison between AI and climate change, emphasizing the urgency of addressing AI's implications due to its fast-paced advancements. Unlike climate change, where humanity has years to course-correct, AI presents challenges that require immediate attention and action within a much shorter timeframe.

Bremmer discusses various aspects of AI regulation, including the potential for setting compute limits on AI models to prevent the development of overly powerful systems, the responsibility of model developers for AI's societal impacts, and the concept of open-source AI models. He expresses skepticism about the feasibility of outright banning certain AI developments due to the vested interests of powerful tech companies and the already widespread proliferation of AI technology.

The conversation also touches on the importance of international cooperation in AI governance, particularly between the United States and China. Bremmer suggests that while there is potential for collaborative efforts, the current geopolitical tensions and competition over technology may hinder progress toward a unified regulatory approach.

Overall, the podcast episode underscores the complexity and urgency of regulating AI to ensure its safe and equitable development and deployment. Bremmer calls for a balanced approach that involves both government and private sector participation in creating a regulatory framework that addresses the multifaceted challenges AI poses to society.