Nuance is the key to effectively managing the balance between supporting artificial intelligence (AI) innovation and regulating it. Unfortunately, the United States, and people in general, struggle with nuance. This became apparent when examining US Senator Chuck Schumer’s new AI regulatory framework, which encompasses five sensible pillars: security, accountability, foundations, explainability, and innovation.
Within these pillars lie rational plans to address various concerns, such as the potential misuse of AI by rogue states, the management of AI-generated misinformation, safeguarding elections against AI-enhanced fraud, ensuring algorithm transparency, protecting at-risk workers, and maintaining competitiveness with countries like China. However, some of these plans may seem contradictory, such as the need to beat China while also protecting jobs. Navigating these complexities requires nuanced thinking and the ability to find common ground among competing imperatives.
Schumer should be commended for approaching AI regulation in a level-headed manner. However, reaching a consensus on these issues will be an uphill battle. In order to establish effective AI regulation in the US, Congress and constituents must agree on certain aspects. They need to comprehend the benefits and risks clearly enough to develop and pass reasonable regulations.
