Open Thread 426

Open Thread 426: A Weekly Gathering of Thoughts and Opportunities

In the ever-evolving landscape of technology and innovation, communities like ACX (Association for Conscious Exploration) have become hubs for discussions, collaborations, and creative pursuits. This week's Open Thread, numbered 426, invites participants to engage in a free-for-all of ideas, questions, and creative expressions. The thread is a staple in the ACX community, offering a platform for members to share their thoughts on any topic, from the intricacies of AI safety to the nuances of democratic resilience.

ACX, known for its focus on conscious exploration and the intersection of technology with human values, has built a global network of enthusiasts, researchers, and practitioners. The community thrives on various platforms, including an unofficial subreddit, Discord server, and bulletin board, where members can connect, learn, and collaborate. While much of the content is freely accessible, some resources are reserved for subscribers, who can support the community and gain access to exclusive discussions and projects.

This week's Open Thread is not just about casual conversations but also highlights exciting opportunities for those interested in contributing to groundbreaking initiatives. One such opportunity comes from hyperstition.ai, an ACX grantee organization. They are currently hosting a contest aimed at discovering the best AI-generated fiction. Participants have the chance to leverage free compute resources for their entries, with a tantalizing $10,000 prize for the winner. The contest deadline is April 1, providing ample time for entrants to refine their submissions and showcase their creativity.

Another noteworthy initiative mentioned in the Open Thread is the CORDA Democracy Fellowship. This fellowship brings together researchers, builders, and practitioners to focus on democratic resilience, with a particular emphasis on its connection to AI safety. The program is an 8-week part-time commitment, offering 20 projects for applicants to choose from. Topics covered include AI governance, surveillance reform, deliberative democracy, and whistleblower protection. Mentors from prestigious institutions such as Harvard, ETH, MATS, AI:FAR, and others will guide the fellows throughout the program. Applications are open, with a closing date of March 30.

While the CORDA Democracy Fellowship is a promising initiative, it is essential for potential applicants to conduct their own research on the organization to ensure alignment with their values and goals. As the Open Thread's author notes, the fellowship is an important cause area, but explicit vouching is not possible due to limited prior experience with the organization.

In conclusion, Open Thread 426 serves as a vibrant space for discussion, collaboration, and exploration within the ACX community. From the creative contest by hyperstition.ai to the CORDA Democracy Fellowship, this week's thread highlights opportunities for individuals to contribute to innovative projects and engage with like-minded peers. Whether you are a seasoned expert or a curious newcomer, the Open Thread invites you to participate in a dynamic, ever-changing conversation about the future of technology and society.