Silent ‘Godfather’ of AI? The Controversy Surrounding Geoffrey Hinton’s Response to the Firing of Google’s AI Ethics Researchers

Still morning read, this article, “‘I didn’t see him show up’: Ex-Googlers blast ‘AI godfather’ Geoffrey Hinton’s silence on fired AI experts“, rich in gunpowder smell.

It discusses the controversy surrounding the firing of two AI ethics researchers, Timnit Gebru and Margaret Mitchell, from Google and the response (or lack thereof) from Geoffrey Hinton, a prominent AI researcher who is sometimes referred to as the “godfather” of deep learning.

The article notes that Hinton has not made any public statements about the situation or shown support for Gebru and Mitchell, who were both vocal advocates for ethical considerations in AI development. This has led to criticism from some members of the AI community, who argue that Hinton has a responsibility to speak out against unethical behavior within the industry.

• The article discusses the controversy surrounding the firing of two AI ethics researchers, Timnit Gebru and Margaret Mitchell, from Google and the response (or lack thereof) from Geoffrey Hinton, a prominent AI researcher who is sometimes referred to as the “godfather” of deep learning.
• Hinton has not made any public statements about the situation or shown support for Gebru and Mitchell, who were both vocal advocates for ethical considerations in AI development.
• Some members of the AI community have criticized Hinton for his silence, arguing that he has a responsibility to speak out against unethical behavior within the industry.
• The article highlights the broader issue of the lack of diversity and representation within the AI industry, and the need for more voices and perspectives to be heard in discussions about AI ethics and governance.
• The controversy surrounding Gebru and Mitchell’s firing has brought these issues to the forefront, and it will be important for the AI community to continue to engage in discussions about ethics, diversity, and accountability going forward.
• The article also notes that Google’s handling of the situation has raised concerns about the company’s commitment to ethical considerations in AI development, and may have a chilling effect on researchers who want to speak out about ethical issues in the industry.

The article also highlights the broader issue of the lack of diversity and representation within the AI industry, and the need for more voices and perspectives to be heard in discussions about AI ethics and governance.

Overall, the article raises important questions about the role of prominent figures in the AI community in promoting ethical and responsible practices, and the need for greater diversity and inclusivity within the industry. The controversy surrounding Gebru and Mitchell’s firing has brought these issues to the forefront, and it will be important for the AI community to continue to engage in discussions about ethics, diversity, and accountability going forward.