A few days ago, Bill Gates published an essay on the challenges of transitioning into a future that is deeply integrated with Artificial Intelligence (A.I.). It's a good essay and I recommend reading it.
https://www.gatesnotes.com/a-turbulent-ai-era-and-critical-choices-to-make
I won't talk much more about the essay. Mr. Gates explained his concerns and hopes well.
Personally, I think that the widespread integration of AI is a problematic pursuit. Some of my concerns are shared with Mr. Gates. But I think that it will result in:
- higher unemployment;
- increased disparity between rich and poor people;
- lower self-esteem;
- further degradation of social connectedness;
- worsening of population decline;
- decline in critical thinking skills;
- loss of oversight of AI systems; and
- a potential near-extinction threat to humanity.
I will admit that the last concern, about the near-extinction threat, seems dramatic and sensationalist. But there have already been reports of AI agents going rogue, and operating beyond intended parameters in order to achieve their issued objectives. Combine that with the reality that AI is currently being used to further develop itself, and there is a real possibility for dramatic unexpected outcomes. However, I also believe in the resiliency of humanity, so I doubt that I complete extinction of the species would occur as a consequence of AI development.
For now, I will not explain my noted concerns further. I feel that it will be more useful for people to reflect upon them and consider how they might come to be realised.
No comments:
Post a Comment