Step 1: Learn the Risks
Artificial Intelligence is complicated. One of the most common things we hear from people is that they don't fully know what AI is, let alone what the dangers might be. You don't need a PhD in computer science, but having a basic understanding of how this technology works will empower you to make informed decisions, instead of companies and politicians making decisions for you. We have more resources on our resources page, but we have a few recommendations to start with:
- Reading Guide, AISafety.com- this page provides straightforward answers for the most common questions surrounding AI safety and connects you with further reading.
- AI 2027- this piece provides a plausible scenario of how AI could develop in the next couple years, potentially resulting in the end of humanity.
- AISafety.info- this website provides much more in-depth explanations of how AI works, how it can go wrong, and what is being done to address the issues.
- Rob Miles- if you prefer watching over reading, check out Rob Miles's YouTube channel. He has dozens of videos on AI safety, ranging from disecting technical papers to reflecting on the movement as a whole.
- BlueDot Impact- If you're able to invest the time, check out the AI safety courses offered by BlueDot Impact. This organization offers online classes ranging from single week intensives to twelve week courses complete with a research project. You can register interest, or simply pull up the curricula and go at your own pace.
Step 2: Make Your Voice Heard
A common call to action is "call your representatives," and equally common is the skepticism that calling representatives doesn't accomplish anything. However, Congressional staffers tally up all the contacts they get from constituents on any given issue, and this does influence representatives who are on the fense with an issue. The fact is that contacting representatives is effective, as long as you do it right.
- Make it Specific- giving your stance on AI policy generally is helpful, but you'll stand out from the crowd if you're specific with your ask. If there's an AI safety bill in your state or federal government, reference that bill and say why you do or don't support it.
- Make it Personal- personal appeals really stand out. Why do you personally care about AI safety? How does this issue affect you and your loved ones specifically? Also, phone calls and hand written notes make more of an impact than emails.
- Don't Just Do It Once- Staffers tally every contact they get. If you contact an office every week, that adds up quickly and amplifies your voice several times over someone who just does it once.
Step 3: Join the Movement
If you live in the DMV area and care about AI safety, PauseAI DC is the place to be! We host workshops to teach people about AI and discuss the related risks and solutions. We have networking events to connect you with others in the movement. And we hold demonstrations to make our voice visible and impossible to ignore. Check out the Upcoming Events page to see what we have in store and fill out this form to become a PauseAI DC volunteer.
Your voice matters, and your actions can have a real impact. Let's work together to make the future safe!
Your voice matters, and your actions can have a real impact. Let's work together to make the future safe!
