The Creator of ChatGPT Thinks AI Should Be Regulated By John Simons

I answer the same questions asked of Mira Murati, the top tech chief at OpenAI.

John Simons at Time interviewed Mira Murati, chief technology officer at OpenAI, leading the teams behind DALL-E, which uses AI to create artwork based on prompts, and ChatGPT, the wildly popular AI chatbot that can answer complex questions with eerily humanlike skill.

“As with other revolutions that we’ve gone through, there will be new jobs and some jobs will be lost…” Murati told Trevor Noah last fall about the impact of AI, “but I’m optimistic.”

The writer had a prepared list of questions for the founder of the Creator of ChatGPT.  I figured it would be interesting for me to answer the questions as though John were interviewing me, an average user of AI.

[Greg]What are some of the limitations or challenges you have encountered while working with ChatGPT and how have you overcome them?

The limitations I've encountered while working with ChatGPT include occasional glitches and limited connection to real-time data and contemporary issues. However, I understand that the technology is still in the research stage.

Some schools are banning ChatGPT. Does this surprise you?

Regarding schools banning ChatGPT, I am not surprised. The application tends to elicit various reactions, including fear. As with any new technology, it can be seen as a threat to established norms and methods, much like the fear of looms during the Luddite movement. Ultimately, AI pushes us all to improve.

A growing number of leaders in the field are warning of the dangers of AI. Do you have any misgivings about the technology?

As for the potential dangers of AI, I see ChatGPT as a tool, like a hammer. Just as a hammer can be used to build a house or harm someone, it's important to regulate behavior and use of AI, much like legislating good manners. However, I believe in minimal regulation, as too much can stifle innovation.

What’s the key ethical or philosophical question that we still need to figure out?

The key ethical and philosophical question surrounding AI remains the same as always - how can we treat each other kindly, be open to different perspectives, and maintain control over our emotions in order to change our minds. I don't believe that the responsibility of answering this question lies with companies like ours or governments. Both have shown limitations and a tendency towards propaganda.

Do you think these questions should be left to companies like yours, or should governments get involved in creating regulations?

Neither companies nor governments should be solely responsible for addressing these questions. Both have shown a tendency towards control and the dissemination of propaganda.

There’s always a fear that government involvement can slow innovation. You don’t think it’s too early for policymakers and regulators to get involved?

It will always be too early for policymakers and regulators to get involved.  This is big and at the core of human evolution.  I don't want a company or a government getting what they've always wanted - the chance to play God.

Can you give me one song or album, one book, and one movie that gives us some insight into who you are and what inspires you?

In terms of personal inspiration, the song "Born To Run" by Bruce Springsteen represents my spirit of being young, American, and free. The book "Flowers for Algernon" highlights the significance of the end, while the movie "2001: A Space Odyssey" is a visual and haunting masterpiece that explores many human fronts. "Casablanca" is also a favorite of mine for its combination of nostalgia, escapism, and artistry.