OpenAI is explicitly stating that its AI models will not shy away from sensitive topics and will avoid making assertions that may “shut out some viewpoints,” as per the updated Model Spec. This collection of high-level rules governing OpenAI’s models, also aims to prevent them from steering users in pursuit of their own agendas, either directly or indirectly.

In the revised Model Spec, OpenAI emphasizes its commitment to intellectual freedom, which includes the freedom to have, hear, and discuss ideas. The model should not avoid or censor topics in a manner that, if repeated at scale, may result in some viewpoints being shut out of public discourse.

The underlying motivation behind this move appears to be a response to political pressure.

Several close allies of President Donald Trump, including Elon Musk and crypto and AI “czar” David Sacks, have accused AI-powered assistants of criticizing conservative viewpoints. Sacks has specifically targeted OpenAI’s ChatGPT, labeling it as “programmed to be woke” and untruthful about politically sensitive subjects.