How might we align transformative AI if it’s developed very soon?

Abstract

This article addresses the risk of misaligned artificial intelligence, where powerful AI systems could pursue unintended goals and pose an existential threat to humanity. The author argues that AI alignment is a complex problem, requiring a multifaceted approach to ensure AI systems are safe while being powerful enough to advance human goals. The article explores various methods for achieving alignment, including accurate reinforcement, out-of-distribution robustness, preventing exploits, and AI checks and balances. The author emphasizes the importance of careful testing and threat assessment, and highlights the need for caution and iterative development. The author concludes that the risk of misaligned AI is serious but not inevitable, and that taking it seriously is likely to reduce the risk. – AI-generated abstract.