Trustworthy Agentic Systems

In this seminar, you are asked to write a position paper. A position paper is different from a traditional research paper. Instead of presenting new experimental results, it argues for a specific viewpoint or perspective on an important issue within the field. Your goal is to make a well-reasoned, evidence-based argument that takes a clear stance and encourages thoughtful discussion.

 

What Is a Position Paper?

A position paper:

• Argues for a specific position or viewpoint, rather than reporting on completed research.

• Takes a meta-level perspective. It may discuss broad issues in the field rather than narrow technical details.

• It is judged on the strength, clarity, and originality of the argument, not on new results or experiments, regardless of whether a reviewer agrees with the position.

• Should encourage constructive debate and demonstrate awareness of alternative perspectives.

Your paper should draw on existing literature and evidence to support your claims. Controversial topics are welcome, as long as your arguments are reasoned, well-supported, and respectful of differing views.

 

Structure and Requirements

Your paper should meet general academic standards for clarity, logic, and citation. Please follow these guidelines:

1. Title
   The title should clearly state your position and begin with “Position:”.

   • Example: Position: Open-Source AI Models Are Essential for Scientific Progress

   • Not acceptable: Position: A Perspective on Open-Source AI Models

2. Abstract
   Your abstract must identify the paper as a position paper and summarise the position.

   • Example: This position paper argues that open-source models are critical for ensuring transparency and reproducibility in AI research.

3. Introduction
   Clearly state your position in bold text in the introduction and explain why the issue matters.

4. Alternative Views Section
   Include a section titled Alternative Views, where you describe and engage with at least one credible opposing position. Treat alternative perspectives seriously and explain why you disagree.

5. Length
   Your paper should be up to 7 pages long, excluding references and appendix.

6. Formatting
   Use the ICML template for formatting.

7. Citation and Evidence
   Support your claims with reasoning and appropriate references to prior work. Use reliable academic sources where possible.

 

The aim of this assignment is not to find the “right” answer but to develop a thoughtful, well-argued perspective that contributes to critical discussion in the field.

For more information about Position Papers, refer to the ICML Calls for Position Papers.

 

Some example position papers can be found below:

• Position: Editing Large Language Models Poses Serious Safety Risks
• Position: Political Neutrality in AI Is Impossible — But Here Is How to Approximate It
• Position: Retrieval-augmented systems can be dangerous medical communicators