The importance of AI character
Forethought argues that AI character—e.g. how obedient, honest, or altruistic AI systems are—will shape power, conflict, and society far more than is recognized. Work to shape AI character could be hugely impactful.
The importance of AI character William MacAskill Tom Davidson Citations Cite Citations PDF Contact 23rd March 2026 The importance of AI character 0. Intro 1. The core argument 1.1. Pathways to impact 1.2. Affecting takeover 1.3. Effects on superintelligence 2. The core counterargument 3. Rejoinders to the core counterargument 3.1. Loose constraints 3.2. Low-cost but high-benefit changes 3.3. Path-dependence 3.4. Smoothing the transition 3.5. Overall 4. Conclusion Appendix 1: Additional high-stakes scenarios Appendix 2: Pathways to impact [AI Narration] The importance of AI character Playback s
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