Biden: "It Remains to Be Seen" Whether AI Poses a Danger

Artificial intelligence has captured immense attention since ChatGPT made its debut. With its human-like responses, the AI chatbot has sparked a rush among both major tech companies and startups to develop competing products. However, President Joe Biden urges caution, emphasizing the importance of safety in AI development before these technologies reach the public.

According to reports, President Biden convened with his science and technology advisors, including leaders from Google and Microsoft, to explore the "risks and opportunities" associated with artificial intelligence. While there are no indications that a blanket ban on ChatGPT, similar to that in Italy, is forthcoming, the president remains skeptical about the safety of AI. He acknowledged the uncertainty, stating, "It remains to be seen. Could be," when asked if AI poses dangers.

Biden highlighted that tech companies bear the responsibility to ensure the safety of their products prior to public release. He acknowledged AI's potential to tackle pressing global challenges, such as disease and climate change, while also addressing its potential risks to society, the economy, and national security.

The White House emphasized the importance of protecting rights and safety to foster responsible innovation and effective safeguards. Biden reiterated his calls for Congress to enact legislation that would preserve children's online privacy.

Although the meeting did not produce immediate policy changes, Russell Wald from the Stanford Institute for Human-Centered Artificial Intelligence noted that the president has initiated a crucial national dialogue on AI issues. Last year, the Biden administration also published its Blueprint for an AI Bill of Rights, designed to guide the ethical design and deployment of AI systems, safeguarding the American public in the evolving landscape of artificial intelligence.