Trust Issues: The closed corporate ecosystem is the problem

The essay "Trust Issues" by Bruce Schneier and Nathan E. Sanders discusses the evolution of artificial intelligence (AI) and its current corporate-dominated landscape. They argue that while AI has roots in military funding, its development has been largely shaped by venture capitalists and Big Tech, similar to the internet's transformation from a military project to a corporate entity. The authors acknowledge the improvements in AI capabilities, citing advancements in models like ChatGPT, but emphasize the critical issue of trust. They highlight the lack of transparency in how major companies train their AI models, which raises concerns about biases and accountability. The authors advocate for the development of open-source AI models that prioritize public interest over profit, citing examples like the BLOOM model and Singapore's SEA-LION. They suggest that democratic governments and civil society should invest in AI as a public good to ensure transparency and accountability, contrasting this with the exploitative nature of corporate AI. Ultimately, they call for a future where AI serves societal needs rather than merely enriching corporate owners.

- AI has evolved from military origins to a corporate-dominated ecosystem.

- Trust in AI is crucial, yet corporate models lack transparency and accountability.

- Open-source AI models may offer more trustworthy alternatives.

- Investment in AI as a public good is necessary for societal benefit.

- Democratic governance can help ensure AI development aligns with public interests.