FTC Chairman Andrew Ferguson said he would resist describing AI agents as autonomous actors, emphasizing that they follow human instructions and should not be anthropomorphized.
FTC Chairman Andrew Ferguson warned against labeling artificial‑intelligence agents as “independent actors,” arguing that they merely execute the instructions of their human developers and users.
Why the FTC Rejects Anthropomorphizing AI
Ferguson said the agency’s focus should remain on the entities that design, train, and deploy AI systems, rather than on the software itself, which lacks agency or intent.
He emphasized that treating AI agents as autonomous could obscure accountability and complicate enforcement of existing consumer‑protection laws.
Implications for Regulation
The FTC’s stance suggests that future rules will target the companies that create AI tools, ensuring they embed safeguards and transparent disclosures.
Lawmakers and consumer groups have called for stricter oversight of AI, but Ferguson’s comments indicate the agency will avoid language that could imply AI systems have legal personhood.
Industry Reaction
Tech firms welcomed the clarification, noting that clear attribution of responsibility helps them comply with existing regulations without facing uncertain liability for “autonomous” behavior.
- Google’s AI chief said the comment aligns with the company’s approach to responsible AI
- Microsoft’s legal team highlighted the need for human oversight in AI deployments
- OpenAI reiterated its commitment to transparency and user control
We must keep the focus on the people and companies behind the technology, not on the code itself, Ferguson told reporters.
The FTC will continue to monitor AI developments and may issue guidance that reinforces the principle that human actors remain accountable for AI‑driven outcomes.
For more details, see the Reuters coverage of FTC chair pushes back on treating AI agents as independent actors.