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The Pentagon Is Trying to Strip AI of Its Ethics. The Law Won't Allow It | Opinion

The Pentagon Is Trying to Strip AI of Its Ethics. The Law Won't Allow It | Opinion

Summary

President Donald Trump directed U.S. federal agencies to stop using AI technology from a company called Anthropic, labeling it a national security risk. The Pentagon plans to enforce this by possibly using the Defense Production Act, a law not intended for this purpose, leading to legal debates over the government's authority. Anthropic opposes these changes, citing ethical concerns and legal rights.

Key Facts

  • President Trump ordered federal agencies to stop using AI technology from Anthropic.
  • Anthropic was labeled a "radical left" company by President Trump.
  • The Pentagon threatened actions like canceling a $200 million contract and blacklisting Anthropic.
  • The Pentagon considered using the Defense Production Act to compel compliance.
  • The Defense Production Act was originally for mobilizing industries in national emergencies.
  • The Supreme Court’s major questions doctrine requires clear congressional approval for certain actions.
  • Anthropic's AI system has ethical limits that the company refuses to remove.
  • Anthropic's refusal aligns with the Department of Defense's policy on human control over AI weapons.
  • A senior Pentagon official admitted the need for Anthropic’s advanced AI technology.

Source Information