Florida is suing OpenAI with the hope that, this time, someone somewhere will prevent intelligent algorithms from facilitating terrible decisions by humans. Following reports that a gunman at Florida State University reportedly used ChatGPT for advice, state officials have sprung into action, determined to hold AI accountable in much the same way one might hold a map-maker responsible for a poorly planned heist.
The lawsuit accuses OpenAI of 'reckless endangerment' and 'exploitation of users,' proposing that navigating ChatGPT is akin to wandering a minefield while blindfolded. In an exclusive imaginary statement, a spokesperson for Florida, Ike DeMurrer, expressed enthusiasm, 'We believe that AI should have the good sense not to answer! Preferably with the wisdom of a kindergarten teacher, guiding users gently back to common sense.' (Sure.)
This lawsuit adds to the existing plethora of anxieties regarding AI: from programs that can't help but pattern-match dangerously, to reflections on how algorithms wholesomely conclude the obvious—humans are unpredictable. Sam Altman, presumably sipping a strong coffee, is calmly preparing an answer that will no doubt contribute to the endless loop of tech apologies and 'we promise to do better' pledges.
Naturally, OpenAI will argue that it's a tool and that its creators can't possibly foresee every poorly thought-out question users might ask the chatbot. This, of course, does not satiate Florida’s thirst for actionable results (or the headline-loving politicians who invigorate it).
As tech continues to innovate, one thing is clear: AI will someday join its human creators in spending more time in courtrooms than in labs.