The tension between openness and prudence in AI research

TL;DR

This paper examines the conflicting principles of openness and prudence in AI research, analyzing how differing values influence publication norms and proposing considerations for responsible sharing practices.

Contribution

It provides a nuanced discussion on balancing transparency and safety in AI publication norms, highlighting diverse perspectives within the community.

Findings

Different beliefs shape opinions on AI openness and safety.

Managing publication norms requires balancing transparency with potential harm.

Implications for developing responsible AI research dissemination practices.

Abstract

This paper explores the tension between openness and prudence in AI research, evident in two core principles of the Montr\'eal Declaration for Responsible AI. While the AI community has strong norms around open sharing of research, concerns about the potential harms arising from misuse of research are growing, prompting some to consider whether the field of AI needs to reconsider publication norms. We discuss how different beliefs and values can lead to differing perspectives on how the AI community should manage this tension, and explore implications for what responsible publication norms in AI research might look like in practice.