AI, Government and the Future

The AI Arms Race: Global Competition and the Future of AI Governance 

Author

Corner Alliance
May 23, 2024

AI, Government and the Future

Welcome to our weekly dive into the exciting world of Artificial Intelligence (AI) and its impact on the U.S. Government!

AI is progressing at an incredible pace, and we're just scratching the surface. With so much information out there, it can be overwhelming to keep up.

We're here to provide you with insightful analysis and a concise summary, delivered to you on a regular basis. Stay informed, stay up-to-date, and join us on this thrilling journey into the future of AI.

Recap Episode One: of AI Government And The Future: Jesse Anglen

In the first episode of AI, Government, and the Future, we were joined by Jesse Anglen, Co-Founder and CEO of Rapid Innovation, to explore the fusion of AI and blockchain, as well as its potential to revolutionize industries like real estate and supply chain management.  We also discussed the exponential power of AI, its ethical considerations and the connection between blockchain and AI. 

Click the links below: 

Spotlight

'Devastating' NSF Funding Cuts Present a 'National Security Issue,' Officials Tell House Panel 

Witnesses from the National Science Foundation (NSF) and its governing board expressed concerns about the negative impact of decreased funding for science on the agency's research priorities. The NSF Director highlighted how cuts in funding would prevent the support of important ideas, leaving them to be funded by global competitors. Similarly, the witnesses emphasized that these cuts are not to be taken lightly, as they pose a national security issue. The NSF and other science agencies already experienced cuts in their appropriations for fiscal year 2024, falling short of what was authorized by the CHIPS and Science Act. President Biden's proposed budget seeks an increase of funds to the NSF, but even with the increase, the funding would still fall below the targets set by the CHIPS Act. The hearing also addressed the high number of proposals the NSF receives each year and the potential loss of opportunities for researchers due to insufficient funding. The discussion underscored the importance of funding conversations in light of budget constraints, geopolitical dynamics, and shifting research priorities.

The Number 

$32 billion 

A bipartisan group of senators recommend that the federal government allocate $32 billion annually, for non-defense AI innovation. The proposal includes creating a cross-government research initiative involving multiple agencies, implementing federally funded AI innovation awards, and focusing on tech applications in science, engineering, and medicine. The report also emphasizes digital safety, suggesting actions to prevent fraud and support responsible use in the healthcare sector. The senators aim to encourage legislation that leverages public-private partnerships to advance AI while minimizing risks.

In-Depth 

Advanced AI Models Could Pose Serious Risks to US National Security - Reuters

The Biden administration plans to protect advanced AI models from China and Russia due to concerns that these models could be used for cyber attacks or the creation of dangerous threats. Deepfake technology, which uses AI algorithms to create realistic but fabricated videos, has become increasingly accessible and can be used to spread disinformation and manipulate public perception. Social media platforms have unsuccessfully tried to ban deepfakes. Advanced AI models can also provide information that could aid in the creation of biological weapons. China and other adversaries are developing AI technologies that could undermine U.S. cyber defenses.

AI 'Godfather' Says UK Should Adopt Universal Basic Income - Business Insider

Geoffrey Hinton, a pioneer in neural networks, believes that AI taking over everyday jobs is a concern and supports the idea of universal basic income as a solution. He advised the idea to the government and believes that without intervention, AI will only benefit the rich and harm those who lose their jobs. Hinton also believes that AI development should proceed cautiously as it could become an "extinction-level threat" within the next 5 to 20 years. OpenAI CEO, Sam Altman, is conducting his own experiment on universal basic income and has proposed the idea of a "universal basic compute" where people receive access to a large language model. This will provide universal access to essential computing resources empowering individuals to participate in the digital economy regardless of their financial situations.