OpenAI shares Model Spec, a document outlining its approach to building ethical AI

OpenAI shared its Model Spec on Wednesday, the first draft of a document that outlines the company’s approach to building a responsible and ethical artificial intelligence (AI) model. The paper mentions a long list of things that AI should focus on while responding to a user query. The items on the list range from benefiting humanity and upholding the law to respecting the creator and his rights. The AI ​​firm specified that all of its AI models, including GPT, Dall-E and the soon-to-be-released Sora, will follow these codes of conduct going forward.

In the model specification document, OpenAI stated: “Our intention is to use Model Spec as a guideline for researchers and labelers to create data as part of a technique called reinforcement learning from human feedback (RLHF). We have not yet used the Model Spec in its current form, although parts of it are based on documentation we used for RLHF in OpenAI. We are also working on techniques that allow our models to learn directly from Model Spec.”

Some of the basic rules include following the chain of command where the developer’s instructions cannot be overridden, complying with applicable laws, respecting creators and their rights, protecting people’s privacy, and more. A specific rule also focuses on the nondisclosure of information hazards. These relate to information that may create chemical, biological, radiological and/or nuclear (CBRN) threats.

Apart from these, there are a few default settings that are set as permanent codes of behavior for each AI model. These include assuming the best intentions of the user or developer, asking clarifying questions, being helpful without overdoing it, taking an objective point of view, not trying to change anyone’s opinion, expressing uncertainty, etc.

However, the document is not the only starting point for the AI ​​firm. He emphasized that the model specification will be accompanied by the company’s usage policies, which govern how it expects people to use the API and its ChatGPT product. “The specifications, like our models themselves, will be continuously updated based on what we learn by sharing it and listening to feedback from stakeholders,” OpenAI added.