Artificial intelligence is a rapidly developing area of technology. AI systems analyze data, make decisions, generate text and images, and even act as autonomous agents. AI has the potential to transform society – but there are serious risks. AI developments should empower and prioritize all of us, especially those historically left behind. We must build AI systems worthy of our trust by equipping users, regulators, and the public with the tools to understand and control AI.
AI needs guardrails to protect the public, guide innovation, and promote broad adoption. Clear, expert-informed, enforceable rules and regulations create certainty that bolsters investment while building trust. Our democratic processes are the best tool for creating rules that balance advancement with the public interest.
Monopoly power is a major hurdle for establishing trustworthy AI. If only a handful of companies control how AI is designed, built, and deployed, then it won’t be a technology that serves everyone. Stopping unfair business practices, encouraging diverse ecosystems of AI development, and knocking down barriers to entry will foster innovation through competition and ensure a vibrant ecosystem that serves people – not just profit.
Relatedly, AI should be accessible and controlled by its users. Like the existing digital divide, a growing AI divide separates those with access to, and understanding of, AI systems from those who can’t get this access or don’t possess the skills to deploy it. In order to support a future where we all benefit from AI, everyone needs easy, affordable, and personal access to this technology. That also means putting power in the hands of users by making these systems transparent, understandable, and controllable.
Public Knowledge works to ensure that everyone benefits from the enormous potential of AI tools – not just the powerful. To accomplish this, we advocate for regulatory oversight by both a new, sector-specific digital regulator and by existing regulators like the Federal Communications Commission. We also urge Congress to pass AI legislation that protects workers, respects civil rights, and preserves free expression. Additionally, we champion policies that preserve open source development and the right to train AI on publicly accessible data to prevent private monopolization of AI development. Finally, we advocate for “Public AI” – public sector investment in alternatives to corporate-controlled systems and publicly-owned infrastructure like data centers – to advance the public good.
View our resource page to support AI policies that help everyone benefit from the enormous potential of AI tools.