Global Governments' AI Strategies Spark 'Progressive or Psychosis' Debate

A prominent AI policy researcher, Miles Brundage, has highlighted the growing ambiguity surrounding government approaches to artificial intelligence, questioning whether recent initiatives signify "tech literate + progressive" governance or "AI psychosis." Brundage's remarks, shared on social media on October 27, 2025, underscore an intensifying global debate as nations accelerate the integration of AI into public services and national infrastructure. This comes amidst the full implementation timeline for landmark regulations like the European Union's AI Act, which aims to set a global standard for ethical AI deployment.

Many governments worldwide are championing AI as a transformative tool for efficiency and innovation in public services. Initiatives such as Singapore's long-standing Smart Nation program, which deploys AI in areas from traffic management to public health, are often lauded for their forward-thinking strategies. Similarly, the UK government's 'AI for Good' program seeks to integrate AI across welfare distribution and urban planning, promising significant societal benefits and improved citizen experiences.

However, these ambitious deployments are frequently met with significant ethical and practical concerns, forming the basis of the "AI psychosis" argument. Critics point to potential pitfalls such as extensive data collection, the exacerbation of social inequalities through algorithmic bias, and the erosion of individual privacy. The complexity of regulations like the EU AI Act, while intended to safeguard rights, also raises fears among some that it could stifle innovation and create bureaucratic hurdles for essential public sector applications.

Miles Brundage, a leading researcher in AI policy and governance at OpenAI, has consistently emphasized the critical need for proactive and adaptive policy frameworks. He notes the divergent approaches taken by various nations, with some embracing AI for public services while others struggle with its ethical and security implications. Brundage's tweet reflects this ongoing tension, stating, "> Haven’t looked closely enough to know if this is a “tech literate + progressive government being cheeky” or “AI psychosis at a government level,” hopefully the former."

The fragmented global regulatory environment and the rapid pace of AI advancement present a complex challenge for policymakers. Balancing the immense potential of AI to enhance public welfare with robust safeguards against its misuse remains a central task for governments worldwide. As AI continues to evolve, the debate over whether state-led initiatives represent enlightened progress or a risky overreach is set to intensify.