AI governance – lessons from other general-purpose technologies

This paper from Brian Williamson considers Artificial Intelligence (AI)

AI is a general purpose technology which will drive a wave of productivity growth. AI is also the invention of a method of invention, which will contribute to breakthroughs in areas including health.

Previous general purpose technologies were not regulated via specific legislation - we did not have a law of steam, electricity or connected computing. Nor were applications subject to assessment requirements prior to release. Innovation without permission was an enabler of progress. 

Applications of previous general purpose technologies were subject to existing regulation and new regulation was developed where issues arose e.g. rail safety in relation to an application of steam. 

We should not abandon the principle of innovation without permission in relation to AI, rather we should rely on adaptation of markets, existing law and regulation, and only legislate to address targeted issues where these adaptations prove insufficient