The European Union is seeking to lead the world in building guardrails around artificial intelligence (AI) amid the rise of powerful new AI systems like ChatGPT.
The EU’s proposed AI Act would classify AI systems into four risk categories, with the highest-risk systems requiring the most stringent oversight. The act would also ban certain AI uses, such as those that could be used to discriminate against people or manipulate their behavior.
What are the risks?
The EU’s efforts to regulate AI are driven by a number of concerns, including the potential for AI to be used to harm people, violate their privacy, or undermine democracy. The rise of ChatGPT, which is a large language model that can generate human-quality text, has heightened these concerns. ChatGPT and other AI systems could be used to create fake news, spread propaganda, or even impersonate real people.
Why are the EU rules so important?
The EU’s AI Act is still in the draft stage, but it is already being watched closely by other countries around the world. The US, China, and other major powers are all developing their own AI regulations, but the EU is seen as being ahead of the curve.
The EU’s approach to AI regulation is based on the principle of “responsible AI.” This means that AI systems should be developed and used in a way that respects human rights, fundamental freedoms, and democratic values. The EU’s AI Act is designed to ensure that AI is used for good, and not for harm.
The EU’s efforts to regulate AI are not without their critics. Some argue that the EU is being too cautious, and that AI regulation could stifle innovation. Others argue that the EU’s approach is too narrow, and that it does not address all of the potential risks of AI.
Despite these criticisms, the EU is likely to continue to play a leading role in the development of AI regulation. The EU has a strong track record of regulating new technologies, and it is well-positioned to ensure that AI is used for the benefit of all.
What if you break the rules?
Violations will draw fines of up to 30 million euros ($33 million) or 6% of a company’s annual global revenue, which in the case of tech companies like Google and Microsoft could amount to billions.
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