In a brief statement to reporters ahead of a closed-door meeting in San Francisco, Mr. Biden said he was there to learn about potential regulations that could be put in place to protect people from harm from new technologies.
“Social media has already demonstrated the harm that powerful technology can do if it’s not properly safeguarded,” Biden said. “I would love to hear more from this group because there is so much to learn, and so much to discuss.”
The conference was attended by Tristan Harris, executive director of the Center for Human Technology, who has become famous for his criticism of social media companies in recent years, and Joy Buorumwini, founder of the Algorithm Justice League. It has emphasized how to spread racism. Jim Steyer, CEO of Common Sense Media, a sexist bigotry and longtime child advocate.
In an interview after the meeting, Mr. Steyer said Mr. Biden “was really working hard” leading the hour-plus session. Steyer said as the group discussed how AI tools could amplify misinformation and widen political polarization, the president made sure AI didn’t undermine American democracy. stressed the importance of doing
“It’s been really encouraging for me to know that he cares so much about this and how influential it is.” [it is] And it can never be left to just a few really big companies,” he said.
Microsoft, Google, OpenAI, and other big tech companies are rushing to develop new AI tools and make them available to millions of people. Both companies have lobbied Washington and other governments around the world, hinting at possible regulation while emphasizing the importance of allowing technology development to continue. Critics have warned that companies are profit-focused, seeking to circumvent strict government regulation or tighten regulation to suit their own interests.
Steyer said the conference touched on both the “great opportunities” and “downsides” of AI tools, including their potential to transform industries such as healthcare and education.
The White House wants to show it takes the AI boom and its risks seriously. In May, the president invited the chief executives of OpenAI, Microsoft and Google for “candid and constructive discussions” about the technology. The government also announced the AI Bill of Rights, which provides guidelines on how federal agencies should use AI. And the National Science Foundation has allocated new funding for AI research.
Biden said before the meeting that Vice President Harris would hold a follow-up session on AI next month with civil rights leaders and consumer advocacy groups.
The focus on AI has also been reflected in Congress, with hearings on the technology in both houses of Congress. Still, it’s unclear whether the attention given to AI in Washington will lead to new legislation.
