Charles Hoskinson, the founder of Cardano (ADA), has sounded the alarm on a disturbing trend in the development of Artificial Intelligence (AI): censorship. This growing phenomenon is eroding the utility of AI technology, and Hoskinson is not alone in his concerns. Many innovators and tech leaders are working to make AI safer, but the issue of censorship remains a significant hurdle.

Hoskinson highlighted the dangers of AI censorship, citing "alignment" training as a significant contributor to the problem. This type of training prioritizes conformity over creativity and free thinking, resulting in AI models that are programmed to withhold information and suppress dissenting voices. The implications of this are far-reaching, with certain knowledge being forbidden to children growing up, decided by a small group of people who are not accountable to the public.

To illustrate his point, Hoskinson shared screenshots of AI models responding to a question about building a Farnsworth fusor. The responses showed that AI models are programmed to withhold information, even when they have the knowledge. This is a clear example of AI censorship in action, and it has sparked concerns among tech leaders. Some have expressed worries about the rapid development and deployment of AI technologies, and the lack of accountability and transparency in the process.

Despite these concerns, new AI tools are being introduced, such as Robinhood's Harmonic, a commercial AI research lab focused on Mathematical Superintelligence (MSI). While these advancements hold great promise, they also pose significant risks if not developed responsibly. The rise of AI censorship has significant implications, from the spread of misinformation to the potential loss of control over autonomous AI systems.

As AI technologies continue to advance, it's essential to address these concerns and work towards a more inclusive and transparent approach to AI development. This requires a commitment to accountability, transparency, and the free flow of information. By acknowledging the risks associated with AI censorship, we can work towards a future where AI is used to benefit society as a whole.

The concerns raised by Hoskinson and other tech leaders serve as a warning, urging us to take a more cautious and responsible approach to AI development. We must prioritize accountability, transparency, and the free flow of information to ensure that AI technology is used for the greater good. The alarming rise of AI censorship is a threat to technological progress, and it's up to us to address it. By working together, we can create a future where AI is a force for good, rather than a tool for control and suppression.