Microsoft Unveils Humanist AI Code to Prioritize Human Well-being

Microsoft's new 'Humanist AI' framework is designed to prioritize human well-being over technological advancement. The company has released a draft code of conduct that outlines the principles for developing artificial intelligence models.

The Humanist AI Code of Conduct emphasizes that AI should be built to support people, not replace them. According to Microsoft, 'Humanist AI is built to support people, not to replace them.' It should not be designed to imitate consciousness or represent feelings, subjective preferences, or intrinsic motivation.

The framework bans the use of AI in building weapons, launching cyber-attacks, and evading human control. AI models must remain subordinate to humanity, subject to meaningful human oversight and control. Microsoft is committed to sharing its approach transparently and inviting input from the public to ensure that AI systems avoid harm.

The company will finalize the rules after a six-week public comment period, which began on Monday. Once implemented, the new framework will guide the development of AI models in 2027.