Empowering Bad Actors: The Potential Consequences of Regulating AI

**Title: The Importance of Ethical Tech Companies Leading AI Development**

**Tech Giants as Guardians of AI Ethics and Governance**

A bipartisan group of legislators in the House of Representatives has introduced a bill to establish a national commission on Artificial Intelligence regulation. While concerns have been raised about the risks of AI by the “AI doomer” community, it is essential to recognize that leading tech companies such as Microsoft and Google can play a crucial role in the development of a flourishing and ethical AI industry.

These companies, at the forefront of AI technology, possess the necessary resources, expertise, and reputational interests to guide AI’s development in a direction that is beneficial and safe for humanity. They have already taken the lead in establishing AI ethics and governance principles. Hindering their development would mean potentially leaving the future of AI in the hands of unknown and potentially dangerous entities.

**The Danger of Excessive Regulation**

Excessive AI regulation in the U.S. could result in other countries, particularly China, taking the lead in AI development. While it may be concerning that advanced AI could be in the hands of tech giants in Silicon Valley, the risk is even greater if authoritarian regimes known for invasive surveillance practices acquire advanced AI capabilities. However, it is equally important to be cautious of malicious actors operating within our borders.

**The Allure of Secrecy in AI Development**

There are numerous reasons why some AI initiatives may operate clandestinely. If a breakthrough is publicly announced, rivals could quickly emulate it, potentially surpassing the initial success. Waiting for regulatory approval can also lead to a loss of first mover advantage. Additionally, advancements in AI can promise market dominance and the ability to imprint one’s own values onto the technology, making secrecy an enticing option for creators with controversial views.

**The Threat from Unknown Parties**

It may not be the tech giants like Google, Microsoft, or OpenAI that pose the greatest risk in AI development. These established companies are already adopting responsible AI frameworks and safety standards. Instead, the greatest threats lie with unknown actors operating on the fringes. In a competitive atmosphere, these bad actors may be inclined to break laws to maintain a leading edge, potentially handicapping ethical enterprises and leaving the field open for unscrupulous actors.

**The Challenges of Regulating Open-Source AI Models**

Some open-source AI models are already in the public domain, making regulation or banning them nearly impossible. Additionally, the computing power necessary for state-of-the-art AI is becoming more accessible, and government bureaucracies are often slow to adapt to the pace of technological change.

**Embracing Ethical Competition**

Rather than stifling ethical tech companies with excessive regulation, it is important to encourage open competition. New government bodies or commissions may only slow down these innovative companies, giving an opportunity for potential rivals to go rogue and exploit the AI race. We should aspire for leaders in AI to be companies with strong ethical frameworks and a commitment to transparency, rather than those willing to break the rules and operate in the shadows.

By rushing to regulate AI, we may unintentionally give an advantage to those we least want to have it. It is crucial to recognize the potential of tech giants to create an ethical AI industry and allow them to lead the way in shaping its future.