California has officially reinforced the use of the term "artificial intelligence" (AI) across all state agencies following an executive order issued by Governor Gavin Newsom. This move comes as a response to attempts by prominent figures to rename AI with terms like "super intelligence," signaling a stance on maintaining clarity and consistency in the technology’s public discourse.
The governor’s directive emphasizes that government communications, regulatory efforts, and educational materials within California must refer to the technology as "artificial intelligence." This decision aims to prevent confusion among residents and ensure a shared understanding of AI’s scope and applications.
The move contrasts with recent political proposals to rebrand AI, including efforts led by former national officials who have sought to replace "artificial intelligence" with more exaggerated or alarmist terms. By rejecting these alternative labels, California asserts its preference for terminology grounded in existing technical and academic standards.
The executive order also urges departments to focus on AI’s impact on sectors such as public safety, healthcare, and education, insisting that clear terminology supports informed policymaking and public awareness. The order encourages transparency about AI’s benefits and risks without resorting to branding shifts that could skew public perception.
This directive reflects broader concerns about how emerging technologies are framed in political and media narratives, aiming to maintain a balanced, fact-based approach amid increasing debates over AI’s influence on society and governance.