Is artificial intelligence a technology that belongs to private companies, governments, or all of us? Could AI become as essential as electricity, and if so, who ensures it serves everyone equally? Perhaps ownership of AI isn’t a fixed decision but a fluid process requiring thoughtful and continuous evolution.

AI as a Utility: Lessons from Electricity and Toll Roads

To understand AI ownership, let’s look at electricity, a technology that powers society, managed by private entities yet regulated as a public good. Initially driven by private innovation, electricity became essential enough to require public oversight, guaranteeing safety, fairness, and universal access.

Another relevant analogy is toll roads. In this model, private companies invest early by absorbing the initial costs and risks to build critical infrastructure. After a certain period, ownership transitions back to the public sector, ensuring long-term accessibility and fairness.

Could we apply similar models to artificial intelligence?

Imagine private companies developing AI rapidly, funded by competitive innovation and private capital. Once AI becomes deeply integrated into daily life, such as in healthcare, transportation, or education, ownership and oversight could gradually shift toward cooperative governance involving governments, academia, civil society, and even the general public.

The Power of Open Collaboration

What about open-source AI? Open communities are already developing groundbreaking technologies in a transparent, collaborative way. Should foundational AI technology remain openly accessible to encourage innovation, while more sensitive applications face stricter oversight?

Balancing openness and regulation is not straightforward. Cooperative governance might bridge that gap by fostering innovation while protecting society’s broader interests. Could multi-stakeholder groups, representing different interests and perspectives, guide AI in a socially responsible direction?

Rethinking AI Ownership for Our Shared Future

The question of who owns AI does not have a simple answer. Instead, ownership might be thought of as an evolving partnership that starts by harnessing private innovation and gradually transitions to public stewardship and cooperative governance.

As AI becomes integral to modern life, considering these questions now is critical. Who do we trust to govern a technology shaping our future? How can we balance innovation and regulation to ensure AI benefits everyone?

Perhaps the most important step is to keep asking these questions and shaping AI thoughtfully together.