Greetings, Mr. President:
A letter from Charles W. Chambers to our forward-thinking leader is prominently showcased in a glass-enclosed exhibit in the FDR Library’s Hyde Park, New York hall. It consists of the singular recognized term ATTABOY and was dated March 13, 1933, nine times following FDR’s second inauguration.
The writer explicitly voiced his endorsement of FDR’s prompt decision to shutter the banks for five days to avert a financial collapse. Given that the reopening coincided with a Saturday when businesses were shut, FDR took this action on March 6 and swiftly executed it.
Regulation of Artificial Intelligence
Your recent initiative outlining regulations for artificial intelligence follows a similar trajectory (although it necessitates support and a different perspective). By considering both its benefits and drawbacks, your stance on A.I. is commendable. Being four and a half years my senior, I am tempted to commend you with an “attaboy,” but I refrain from doing so out of respect for my deceased parents.
Nevertheless, I am reaching out to you for three reasons: to express gratitude, convey appreciation, and offer an alternative viewpoint. You are well aware that your legacy will be shaped not by the social battles you engage in, but by the quality of decisions you make and implement. The EU, which previously led in this realm, especially regarding privacy concerns, is now catching up to us due to your wise, ethical, and democratic choices. While we are not there yet, your leadership signifies a significant advancement.
Exemplary Leadership
First and foremost, congratulations. This leadership echoes that of FDR, the visionary behind the TVA, WPA, CCC, and Social Security. Quite the impressive portfolio.
Artificial Intelligence: A Double-Edged Sword
Next, I applaud your efforts. Having delved into extensive research and penned over 20 lines on A.I., I comprehend both the advantages and potential pitfalls of not handling it akin to FDR. Your establishment of a positive trajectory is commendable.
Collaborative Action is Imperative
Thirdly, I wish to present a distinctive perspective by critiquing your current approach.
You navigated the realms of restraint, negotiation, and conciliation, engaging with both A.I. tech giants advocating for unhindered innovation and proponents of privacy, security, and caution. It’s a formidable arena.
Compromise Anchored in Specifics, Not Principles
Nonetheless, it doesn’t have to be this way. This is the viewpoint I wish to underscore. The negotiation following those meetings, while leaving all parties somewhat content but not entirely so, could have been more profound. The focus on what A.I. can and cannot do presently led to this situation. While seeking compromise is commendable, envisioning A.I. through the lens of Isaac Asimov could offer a different perspective.
Consider Asimov’s groundbreaking work, “I, Robot,” which introduced the Three Laws of Robotics:
- A robot must not harm a human being or, through inaction, allow a human being to come to harm.
- A robot must obey the orders given it by human beings except where such orders would conflict with the First Law.
- A robot must protect its existence as long as such protection does not conflict with the First or Second Law.
Embracing the Future
Isn’t it remarkably straightforward? This forward-looking perspective emphasizes the future over the present, providing a perpetual guidepost unaffected by new developments. It empowers us to confront malevolent actors who harbor ill intentions.
Consider revisiting Asimov’s works, Mr. President. Congratulations on seizing a leadership opportunity. Thank you for acting in our best interests and safeguarding our future. The most significant chapter in human history has commenced with A.I.
The journey is far from over.
