"Artificial intelligence is the new electricity it will transform industries just like electricity did." - Andrew Ng, AI pioneer
AI regulation landmines
Former British PM Rishi Sunak has warned about the dangers of artificial intelligence but softened his stance. What began as a push for strong AI safety guardrails eventually shifted toward minimal regulation, keeping in mind economic growth. It is not wrong to say that many governments are less interested in regulation now, but growth via AI.
Driven by economic wins
This reflects a broader government trend. Many leaders now seem to believe strict rules may stifle innovation and job creation. Trump's administration in the US has moved away from executive orders aimed at safer AI to prioritising data centres and chip exports, keeping in mind the AI that China is building. Big Tech and investors are aiding this shift in mindset, with firms like OpenAI and deep-pocketed investors volunteering limited audits while resisting mandatory restrictions. Sunak is on various roles with AI firms, after leaving politics! Lobbying efforts are working.
What of China
China’s approach is also permissive. While strict rules exist for some online services, the broader AI field sees light oversight, supported by tax breaks and government support. This motivates faster innovation but leaves gaps in protecting against misuse. Europe’s privacy rules were once a model but seem unlikely to shape future AI laws. Perhaps waiting for catastrophic harm before acting is the destiny now. Chatbots and generative models are now in millions of hands worldwide.
Summary
Soft regulation of AI is becoming common as governments prioritise economic growth and industry influence over strict oversight leaving societies at risk of unanticipated harms.
Food for thought
Is it better to slow AI progress now or deal with potential disasters later?
AI concept to learn: AI regulation in China
China’s
AI regulation focuses on strong state oversight, safety, and
accountability. Key laws like the Algorithm Regulation (2022), Deep
Synthesis Regulation (2023), and Generative AI Measures (2023) require
transparency, dataset scrutiny, security reviews, and content
compliance. Companies must prevent bias, label AI-generated content, and
ensure alignment with social and national priorities. China emphasizes
controlled innovation—promoting AI growth while maintaining strict
governance and risk management.
[The Billion Hopes Research Team shares the latest AI updates for learning and awareness. Various sources are used. All copyrights acknowledged. This is not a professional, financial, personal or medical advice. Please consult domain experts before making decisions. Feedback welcome!]
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