I think the SERI-MATS organisers likely defer to mentors on details or curriculum/research philosophy. It feels like this letter should be addressed to them. I think it’s hard to disagree with “Alignment researchers should think hard about their research methodology and strategy” but I think you are probably failing to pass the ideological turing test for various other positions which will mean this arguments won’t connect.
In general, MATS gives our chosen mentors the final say on certain curriculum elements (e.g., research projects offered, mentoring style, mentor-specific training program elements) but offers a general curriculum (e.g., Alignment 201, seminars, research strategy/tools workshops) that scholars can opt into.
I think the SERI-MATS organisers likely defer to mentors on details or curriculum/research philosophy. It feels like this letter should be addressed to them. I think it’s hard to disagree with “Alignment researchers should think hard about their research methodology and strategy” but I think you are probably failing to pass the ideological turing test for various other positions which will mean this arguments won’t connect.
In general, MATS gives our chosen mentors the final say on certain curriculum elements (e.g., research projects offered, mentoring style, mentor-specific training program elements) but offers a general curriculum (e.g., Alignment 201, seminars, research strategy/tools workshops) that scholars can opt into.