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AI Ownership

Risk Factor

AI Ownership

Model RoleRoot Factor (AI System)
CharacterDistribution factor
Key DimensionsCountries, Companies, Shareholders

AI Ownership refers to who controls the most powerful AI systems and their outputs. Concentration among a few companies, countries, or individuals creates different risks than broad distribution. Ownership structure shapes incentives, accountability, and the distribution of AI benefits.

For interactive exploration of how AI Ownership relates to other factors, see the AI Transition Model Graph.

AI Ownership primarily affects Long-term Lock-in scenarios:

  • Concentrated ownership shapes what values and power structures get entrenched
  • Ownership patterns determine accountability and reversibility
  • Distribution of AI benefits affects social stability

Also affects:

DebateQuestion
Concentration effectsIs AI lab concentration good (easier to regulate) or bad (single points of failure)?
Profit vs safetyCan profit-motivated companies be trusted with AI safety?
Open source roleDoes open source AI democratize capability or make dangerous systems accessible?
US-China dynamicsIs competition inevitable, or can cooperation emerge?