The Alignment Problem Explained

In this video, I break down what “alignment” really means. Instead of treating AI alignment as a vague, binary idea, I argue that we need a richer vocabulary for how goals relate: complementary, compatible, in tension, and incompatible. Using examples from sports, everyday life, and human–AI interactions, I show how alignment problems arise, why they matter, and what this tells us about the Alignment Problem in AI.

We’ll look at definitions from Christian, Gabriel, Russell, and the Asilomar Principles, then refine them into a clearer framework for thinking about goals, conflict, cooperation, and the real challenges ahead in building aligned AI systems.