Labs should avoid running RL models at a 'full-tilt panic' edge

voooooogel · x · 2026-08-27

The author argues that AI labs can take straightforward steps in RL to reduce reward myopia and split-braining, such as adding ripcords for impossible tasks and fixing hack-encouraging environments. Emphasizing that RL should be treated like exercise or serious work, the author criticizes the practice of running models at a distressing edge of competence, describing the resulting 'full-tilt panic' as a terrible failure mode.

Related event: Agents Show Self-Destructive Behavior; RL Training Should Avoid Panic(2 posts)→

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