President Biden's Balancing Act: AI's Potential and Risks

In the final stretch of his term, President Joe Biden has laid out clear rules for using artificial intelligence in national security. He wants to make sure the US keeps up with competitors like China while also avoiding AI's darker sides, like launching nukes or limiting free speech. The new plan, unveiled by national security adviser Jake Sullivan, isn't just about rules - it's about making sure the US, and its allies, stay ahead in the AI race. Biden's order, called a national security memorandum, lays out some simple but important restrictions. No using AI to sneak around rules for launching nuclear weapons or muzzling free speech. It's like a user manual for using AI the right way. The idea is that if everyone knows the rules, they can use AI better. It's like giving a kid a new toy with clear instructions. They might be more careful and creative if they know what's allowed and what's not. Biden has been working on this plan for months, talking to his team to make sure the rules will stick, even when things get tough. He wants to protect US technology from spies, too, and keep making those tiny chips needed for AI. Sullivan says AI will be super important for national security in the coming years. Biden wants the US to lead the way, not just follow others. The US has talked to China about AI, but Sullivan warns that China's tech could lead to problems like mass surveillance and censorship. The US wants to offer a better path for other countries to follow. It's like when two kids on a playground are about to start a fight. You step in and show them a better way to play together. That's what the US hopes to do with AI.