Talking about AI Ethics on LinkedIn: Genuine Concern or just a PR Play?
In recent months, we have seen fascinating patterns emerge in how executives and companies discuss AI ethics on LinkedIn.
Leading voices have pivoted on AI ethics and the need for regulations, yet fundamental questions remain unanswered. What are the issues today? Are geopolitical forces driving the conversation? How will Trump’s deregulation push affect the conversation around AI ethics?
Over the last year we have seen:
Peak Hype: February 2024 marked the highest volume of AI ethics discussions, with an early uptick starting as far back as October 2023. Early adopters were ahead of the curve, signaling their awareness and readiness for upcoming regulatory changes.
Leading Voices: Microsoft, Nvidia, Intel, IBM, and EY significantly increased their conversations around AI ethics starting in November 2023. Their consistent engagement suggests a deeper, sustained strategy in navigating AI's ethical landscape.
Top Executive Voice - Christina Montgomery, IBM
And Peaky Players: Interestingly, some companies showed a different pattern. IBM, EY, and PwC were highly vocal during the peak hype of early 2024 but have since quieted down. This "peaky" behavior may indicate trend-chasing rather than a long-term commitment to AI ethics.
Why the Spike? Two major events likely drove this surge in ethical discourse:
- European Union AI Act: As the EU's AI Act approached its final stages, companies needed to align with the impending regulations to avoid potential penalties.
- U.S. Executive Order on AI: In late October 2023, President Biden's executive order on AI emphasized safety, security, and ethics. This catalyzed many U.S. companies to publicly affirm their commitment to responsible AI practices.
Track the state of AI Ethics and other critical corporate issues as they play out live, in real time, with Cometrics. We track communications alignment and dissonance, uncovering both opportunity and risk. Let's dive into the conversation! 💬👇