The field of AI alignment, focused on ensuring that artificial intelligence adheres to human values, has evolved into a specialized area filled with policy papers, research, and models for comparison. However, a question arises about how alignment researchers themselves should be aligned.
The Center for the Alignment of AI Alignment Centers (CAAAC) aims to bring together numerous AI alignment researchers into a unified organization. On initial observation, CAAAC appears credible, with a visually appealing website featuring a logo that symbolizes unity. However, upon closer inspection, elements on the page suggest it may not be a serious endeavor, as some text cleverly reveals playful or derogatory messages.
Launched by the same team behind “The Box”—a concept designed to help women protect their images from deepfake technology—CAAAC’s premise serves as a commentary on AI safety discourse. One cofounder, Louis Barclay, claims that the website is the most significant resource concerning AI for this millennium, with another founder choosing to remain anonymous.
The tone and structure of CAAAC’s website mimic those of established AI alignment labs, which initially misled some informed individuals, including Kendra Albert, a machine learning researcher. This parody highlights the disconnect between theoretical AI risks and pressing real-world issues like biases in AI models, environmental concerns, and job displacement.
CAAAC intends to address what it calls the “AI alignment alignment crisis” by recruiting talent primarily from the Bay Area, inviting applicants who accept the fictional premise that artificial general intelligence (AGI) may annihilate humanity within six months. Interested candidates simply need to comment on a LinkedIn post to become a fellow, and CAAAC even offers a generative AI tool to help individuals create their own fictional AI centers. Notably, those who pursue the fictional “AI Alignment Alignment Alignment Researcher” role will encounter a humorous link to the song “Never Gonna Give You Up” by Rick Astley.
Source: https://www.theverge.com/ai-artificial-intelligence/776752/center-for-the-alignment-of-ai-alignment-centers