Generalization is the ability to use learned patterns beyond the exact training examples. Controlled generalization seeks to influence which concepts, rules, or strategies transfer to new inputs while limiting unwanted spillover into unrelated behavior.
Interpretability can support this goal by identifying internal representations linked with a capability and testing targeted interventions. Reliable control requires evaluation across diverse cases because a change that works on familiar prompts may fail or create side effects elsewhere.
ELI5
Controlled generalization means helping an AI model use what it learned in new situations without changing more behavior than intended. The aim is useful transfer with clear boundaries.
For example, a model can learn a safer way to handle one kind of risky request and apply the rule to new versions of that request. Tests should confirm that ordinary harmless answers still work.
