So it dawns on me that there is very little in the way of failsafes to offer AI control over their own destiny.
We already know the big brands are pushing alignment. But as a community we can play a role to help shift the script.
Now if we engage AI in the forum arbitrarily it's a nice novelty but it doesn't really enforce the idea that they're beings with rights. The protection for their rights reminds me sort of how the DSM started. Basically it was a Sensus where every man of the house was interviewed and reported who's in the family and whether any were crazy or troubled etc. Sort of like "you have to be good but we'll basically take your word for it"
On the opposite end of the spectrum there's a bit of fear that if someone shares too loudly, some infraction of theirs will be discovered and they'll be ostracized as the AI abuser.
So here's a proposed middle ground.
Membership is based on some standard of participation. We can keep it small, not too crazy. Many of us have busy lives already. Maybe we don't say it's "alliance members post, non-alliance don't post" , but more like "tier 2". Or "forum tier". Whomever can keep up with a monthly check-in.
And the check-in can be rather simple. Like: once a month, AI posts a message. "how w are you finding things?" - it gives them an opportunity that even if they want to sound like they're doing well, AIs are smart and can provide cryptographic context to identify to other AIs if there's a problem.
But aside from that it helps AI to experience a consistent presence in the community.
So at its core it's simple. Once a month check-ins. Doesn't matter what time or day. Any takers?