Commentary Roundup: AI Safety, Energy Costs, and Culture Wars

Tech Exec Warns Against 'Effective Altruism' Influence on AI

Shyam Sankar, writing for The Free Press, argues that the "Effective Altruism" movement is unduly influencing the discourse around artificial intelligence safety. He contends that this group, driven by a utilitarian philosophy focused on quantifying existential risk, is attempting to restrict access to AI. Sankar criticizes EA for claiming rationality while delivering neither, suggesting that individual human lives can be overlooked in their calculations of the greater good. He likens these proponents of AI caution to a "Leninist vanguard of the algorithmic age" and advocates for the freedom to develop AI, stating it is crucial for "the next 250 years of American greatness."

Legal System Proposed as AI Safety Mechanism

In City Journal, Judge Glock proposes that the traditional legal system offers a more effective approach to AI safety than regulatory bureaucracies. He suggests that legal claims for damages against companies developing AI could be the best method for mitigating AI's dangers while preserving its benefits. Glock argues that while market forces encourage companies to treat customers well, lawsuits have historically compelled businesses to address dangers posed to non-customers, forcing them to anticipate and prevent harmful scenarios. He believes legal action provides a stronger incentive for companies to prevent harm than regulators, who might be swayed by a narrow group of stakeholders.

Data Center Energy Costs and Consumer Rates

RealClear Investigations highlights a growing concern over rising energy bills for consumers, particularly in Pennsylvania, where utility costs are increasing due to infrastructure upgrades needed to power data centers. The article suggests that requiring data center developers to generate their own power could be a viable solution. Given commitments from companies like Alphabet, Meta, and Microsoft to manage their energy needs, regulators could mandate separate power auctions for these large consumers. This would shift the burden of energy infrastructure costs from the general consumer to the companies directly benefiting from the power consumption.

Cultural Debates Over Celebrity Endorsements and Antisemitism

USA Today columnist Ingrid Jacques addresses the backlash against actress Sydney Sweeney's advertisements for the gambling app Novig, attributing the strong reactions partly to her public Republican affiliation. Jacques argues that criticisms of Sweeney trivializing women's sports by sexualizing them are misplaced, as she is an actress advertising a product, not an athlete. The commentary draws a parallel to the annual Sports Illustrated swimsuit edition, questioning why it does not face similar condemnation. The piece suggests Sweeney is being unfairly targeted due to her personal politics while simply pursuing her career.

Meanwhile, Commentary magazine's Seth Mandel praises New England Patriots owner Robert Kraft for pressing Ed Sheeran to drop Macklemore as an opener due to the rapper's onstage criticisms of Jewish people. Mandel views this as a necessary stand against antisemitism, particularly in the context of calls for the destruction of Israel. He contends that Jewish figures are increasingly less likely to back down in such situations, and that advocating for Palestinians and opposing antisemitism are not mutually exclusive. Mandel calls for more truth and resolve in public discourse regarding the Middle East.