Menaka Guruswamy writes: Can AI be communist?

Source: The post is based on the article “Menaka Guruswamy writes: Can AI be communist?” published in “The Indian express” on 22nd July 2023.

Syllabus: GS 3 – Science and Technology- developments and their applications and effects in everyday life; developing new technology. & Awareness in the fields of IT, Computers,

News: In this article author discusses China’s draft regulations on AI, which require AI to promote socialist values and undergo state security assessments. The regulations highlight China’s approach to controlling AI content and its providers. The author contrasts this with the U.S.’s focus on individual rights in AI regulations.

What are the global efforts made to introduce laws that will regulate AI?

China’s Efforts to Regulate AI

China’s Cyberspace Administration drafted regulations for generative AI products and services.

These products must uphold socialist values and cannot promote subversion, separatism, or false information.

AI products aiming for public use must pass a state “security assessment” before being launched.

Providers are responsible for content generated by their AI. Violations can result in penalties as per various Chinese cybersecurity and data laws.

United States’ Approach to AI Regulation

The White House released a “Blueprint for an AI Bill of Rights” in October 2022.

This bill emphasizes individual rights and protections against algorithmic discrimination.

Algorithmic discrimination is defined as unjust treatment based on race, color, gender, religion, age, etc., caused by automated systems.

The U.S. model aims to protect individuals from AI bias and promotes freedom of expression.

Different countries are adopting AI regulations based on their political and legal values. While China prioritizes state control and socialist values, the U.S. emphasizes individual rights and protections against AI biases.

What are the implications of these regulations and efforts?

Implications for AI in China:

AI will promote socialist values, affecting the content and answers they generate.

Chatbots like Baidu’s “Ernie” could have filtered responses based on state guidelines.

Innovation may be limited due to stringent state controls.

Providers bear the responsibility for AI content, leading to self-censorship and cautious development.

Implications for AI in the U.S.:

AI systems will prioritize individual rights and avoid algorithmic discrimination.

Companies will focus on creating unbiased AI, considering the wide range of individual attributes like race and gender.

Users can expect more transparent and just AI services.

General Implications:

Countries will shape AI based on their political and legal values.

AI development may differ regionally, causing a divergence in AI behavior and functionality.

Regulation might influence how global AI companies tailor their products for different markets.

The infusion of ideology in AI can potentially shape human opinions and beliefs.