WASHINGTON (October 30, 2023)—Today, the White House issued a new executive order on the use of artificial intelligence (AI) technology, laying out guidelines to protect safety, privacy, equity, and the rights of consumers, patients and workers. This executive order reflects the fact that AI technologies come with both opportunities and dangers. While it’s encouraging to see the administration take a careful approach to how AI will be used, there are important questions yet to be answered, according to the Union of Concerned Scientists (UCS).
Below is a statement by Dr. Jennifer Jones, director of the Center for Science and Democracy at UCS.
“Artificial intelligence technologies have real potential to change the way we go about our lives—but we can’t just assume they’ll work for the public benefit. These technologies are consequential and come with real risks, and we need to use our own intelligence in making sure we manage the risks. This effort will require collaboration among governments, businesses, scientists, and community organizations.
“AI technology has grown rapidly, but raises important questions. How will we make sure people can get accurate and reliable information from the sea of AI-generated content? How do we make sure that AI systems aren’t built to replicate the racial, gender, and class biases that lead to discrimination and oppression? Can we make sure that AI tools don’t just become another source of disinformation and opportunity for exploitation by bad actors? How will AI-generated information be used in government decision-making?
“This executive order is a good first step that addresses some—but not all—of the vital questions about AI technology. It has solid language around protecting individual privacy and looks across multiple issues that intersect with AI. A broader set of AI guidance should include efforts to protect against disinformation, ensure equitable access to technology, defend free and fair elections, and coordinate with the communities and groups most likely to be impacted by AI. In addition, the White House Office of Science and Technology Policy should examine and issue a report on the relationship between AI technology and scientific integrity.
“We need to make thoughtful, intentional choices about how we deploy technologies—choices that are centered around people, not the technologies themselves. Today’s executive order is a step in the right direction, but more work on this issue will certainly be needed. We’ll be watching closely to ensure that the federal government provides effective and comprehensive guidance on the use of AI technologies.”