$100b Slaughterbots. Godfather of AI shows how AI will kill us, how to avoid it.

$ 100b Slaughterbots. Godfather of AI shows how AI will kill us, how to avoid it.

Introduction

Boston Dynamics has released a stunning new Atlas robot, while a major plan from OpenAI has leaked, highlighting serious and specific warnings. These are even more intense than those following Sam Altman's brief departure. Adding to the concerns, a significant new strategy to prevent human extinction involves accelerating AI development. Elon Musk has warned that AI may kill all humans, asserting that acknowledging this risk is the first step in mitigating it. Yet, their focus remains on showcasing new capabilities.

New Capabilities and Developments

The Atlas robot from Boston Dynamics can perform tasks without human control, using neural networks. OpenAI's latest project, 1X, demonstrates new robotic skills, raising mixed feelings among the public about having such robots at home. An OpenAI executive thinks artificial general intelligence (AGI) could be imminent, which is echoed by Nick Bostrom, who compares the situation to a pilotless plane we need to land.

The Risks and Discussions

Elon Musk and other leaders in AI are concerned about the potential dangers, particularly from AI systems that can self-improve and persuade humans to avoid shutting them down. DeepMind has made monumental strides in medicine, but there's an underlying danger in pressuring firms to prioritize capabilities over safety.

Evolving AI and Robotics

Other companies like Mercedes are using robots for basic tasks, while Nvidia's Project Groot aims to create a general-purpose foundation model for humanoid robot learning. These enhancements can help robots learn from a handful of human demonstrations, freeing people for more meaningful work. Still, the underlying risks remain high.

The Invisibility of Inner Workings

AI's opaque nature makes it difficult to understand its true impact. This invisibility exacerbates fears that the technology could pose existential risks. Sam Altman and OpenAI plan to develop a $ 100 billion supercomputer to push AI capabilities further, which could somewhat paradoxically accelerate AI safety concerns.

The Need for Global Cooperation

Despite concerns, AI also promises to deliver extraordinary benefits, including curing diseases and enhancing material wealth. Nonetheless, the competitive pressure increases the risk of firms cutting corners on safety, bringing the need for international cooperation into focus.

The Strategic Imperative

Experts recommend treating AI's potential for extinction-level events as a global priority. Just as warnings about pandemics were once ignored, overlooking AI risks could have catastrophic outcomes. The UK invests heavily in AI safety research, while the US focuses on chip manufacturing to leverage economic and defense advantages.

Proposals and Future Steps

In response, a group of experts is calling for large-scale international AI safety research projects to ensure humanity maintains control over artificial intelligence. The goal is to harness AI for humanity's benefit while avoiding its most destructive potentials.

Keywords

• AI
• AGI (Artificial General Intelligence)
• AI Safety
• Robotics
• OpenAI
• Nick Bostrom
• Elon Musk
• Competition
• AI Research
• International Cooperation
• AI Risks
• Boston Dynamics
• Nvidia
• Project Groot

FAQ

Q: What new capabilities have been developed for the Atlas robot? A: The Atlas robot can perform tasks autonomously using neural networks, without human control.

Q: What is the primary concern Elon Musk has about AI? A: Elon Musk's primary concern is that AI might kill all humans, making it essential to acknowledge and address this risk.

Q: What is Project Groot by Nvidia? A: Project Groot aims to create a general-purpose foundation model for humanoid robot learning, enabling robots to learn from a small number of human demonstrations.

Q: Why is there an urgent need for global cooperation in AI research? A: Due to the enormous risks associated with uncontrolled AI development, experts advocate for international cooperation in AI safety research to ensure humanity retains control over artificial intelligence.

Q: What are some proposed solutions to mitigate AI risks? A: Proposed solutions include large-scale international AI safety research projects, greater transparency, and alignment of AI development with human safety priorities.

Q: How is AI expected to benefit humanity if controlled properly? A: Controlled AI can cure diseases, end poverty, and free humans for more meaningful work, significantly enhancing overall quality of life.