A Call to Prioritize Alignment in the Age of AI and a Template for Local Authorities

In the quiet crucible of our times, a monumental tension simmers at the intersection of innovation and responsibility. As humanity races to create artificial general intelligence (AGI) and artificial superintelligence (ASI)—machines of unimaginable capability—we face a profound question: are we building for survival or self-destruction?

The allure of AGI is vast: systems capable of solving complex problems, revolutionizing medicine, climate solutions, and more. Yet, as these machines inch closer to realities once confined to speculative fiction, we find ourselves alarmingly unprepared for their potential misalignment with human values. Alignment—the field concerned with ensuring that these systems understand, respect, and act in harmony with human goals—has been relegated to the margins of funding and public discourse.

Only a fraction of the immense financial and intellectual resources poured into creating AGI is devoted to ensuring it doesn’t inadvertently—or intentionally—act against us. The disparity between ambition and caution mirrors a kind of collective hubris, as though the sheer marvel of creation blinds us to its potential consequences.

There is also the counterpoint to inaction: rushing into regulation at the eleventh hour. History warns us that hastily devised rules are rarely thoughtful or equitable. Worse still, a crisis could empower centralized governments or corporations to seize disproportionate control under the guise of "safety," stifling freedoms and deepening inequalities.

We stand at a pivotal moment—a chance to prioritize alignment and safety before urgency turns into reactionary fear. To do so, we must champion transparency, foster diverse participation in governance, and encourage decentralized solutions to oversight. Aligning these systems with human well-being is not merely a technical challenge; it is a moral imperative.

Template Letter to Local Government

[Your Full Name]

[Your Address]

[City, State, ZIP Code]

[Email Address]

[Date]

[Recipient Name]

[Recipient Title]

[Address of Local Government Office]

[City, State, ZIP Code]

Subject: Urgent Need for Action on Artificial Intelligence Safety and Alignment

Dear [Recipient Name],

I am writing as a deeply concerned citizen regarding the development of artificial intelligence (AI), particularly artificial general intelligence (AGI) and artificial superintelligence (ASI). While the potential benefits of these technologies are profound, the risks of misalignment and misuse are equally grave.

Currently, a disproportionate amount of resources and attention are focused on advancing AI capabilities compared to ensuring their safe deployment. Alignment research—the study of how to ensure AI systems act in harmony with human values—receives only a fraction of the funding and consideration that AGI development commands. This imbalance poses a direct threat to the long-term safety and stability of our society.

Equally concerning is the risk of delayed regulation. Hasty, reactionary measures implemented in the wake of a crisis could pave the way for heavy-handed or authoritarian oversight. Instead of safeguarding citizens, such regulations could centralize power, stifle innovation, and erode civil liberties.

I believe it is critical to address this issue now, with care and foresight, by focusing on solutions that avoid excessive government control. Here are some proposals for action:

1. Incentivize Transparency: Encourage companies developing AI systems to adopt voluntary transparency standards, sharing safety practices, alignment methodologies, and governance structures.

2. Foster Decentralized Oversight: Support the creation of independent, community-driven organizations to audit AI systems and ensure they meet alignment and safety benchmarks.

3. Promote Collaborative Governance: Facilitate forums where policymakers, technologists, and citizens can collaboratively shape frameworks for AI development.

4. Educate the Public: Invest in accessible educational campaigns to increase public understanding of AI risks and alignment challenges, empowering citizens to participate in the discourse.

5. Support Safety Research: Allocate funds to academic and nonprofit institutions working on AI alignment and ethical frameworks, ensuring these remain independent from corporate or political interests.

I urge you to take immediate steps to address these concerns by promoting initiatives that prioritize safety and alignment while preserving democratic freedoms. What actions is your office currently taking or planning to ensure AI systems are developed in alignment with human well-being?

Thank you for your attention to this critical matter. I look forward to your response.

Sincerely,

[Your Full Name]

Instructions for Use

1. Copy and paste the letter into your word processor or email application.

2. Customize it with your name, address, and the recipient’s details.

3. Print and mail it, or send it via email to your local government representatives.

By amplifying our collective voices, we can ensure that AI development serves humanity’s highest good.