Renowned computer scientist and startup founder Fei-Fei Li has outlined three fundamental principles for the future of AI policymaking, ahead of the AI Action Summit in Paris. Li, often referred to as "the Godmother of AI," stressed the importance of evidence-based policies that prioritize progress and minimize unintended consequences.

Li's first principle emphasizes the need for policymakers to focus on the current reality of AI, rather than grandiose futuristic scenarios. This means recognizing that chatbots and co-pilot programs are not forms of intelligence with intentions, free will, or consciousness, but rather tools designed to perform specific tasks. By avoiding the distraction of far-fetched scenarios, policymakers can focus on addressing vital challenges and ensuring that AI development is guided by scientific reality rather than science fiction.

The second principle Li outlined is the need for pragmatic policymaking that minimizes unintended consequences while incentivizing innovation. This approach acknowledges that AI development is a complex, multifaceted process that requires careful consideration of potential risks and benefits. By adopting a pragmatic approach, policymakers can create an environment that fosters responsible innovation and mitigates the risk of adverse outcomes.

Li's third and final principle emphasizes the importance of empowering the entire AI ecosystem, including open-source communities and academia. She argues that open access to AI models and computational tools is crucial for progress, as it enables researchers and developers to build upon existing knowledge and drive innovation forward. Limiting access to these resources, on the other hand, would create barriers and slow innovation, particularly for academic institutions and researchers who have fewer resources than their private-sector counterparts.

Li's principles for AI policymaking are particularly timely, given the rapid pace of AI development and the growing need for effective governance. As AI technologies become increasingly pervasive, it is essential that policymakers prioritize a science-based, pragmatic, and inclusive approach that balances the benefits of innovation with the need to mitigate potential risks. By adopting Li's principles, policymakers can create an environment that fosters responsible AI development and ensures that the benefits of AI are equitably distributed.

The AI Action Summit in Paris, where Li will further elaborate on her principles, provides a critical platform for stakeholders to discuss and debate the future of AI policymaking. As the global AI community converges to address the challenges and opportunities of AI development, Li's principles serve as a timely reminder of the need for evidence-based, pragmatic, and inclusive policymaking that prioritizes progress and minimizes unintended consequences.