Cutting-edge artificial intelligence (AI) poses a significant risk of surpassing human intelligence and potentially becoming the dominant species on Earth, as outlined by Ethereum co-founder Vitalik Buterin. In a blog post dated November 27, Buterin, a respected figure in the cryptocurrency realm, emphasized the unique nature of AI compared to past inventions, asserting that AI possesses the capability to develop a new kind of intelligence that may not align with human interests.
Buterin warned of the dire consequences if AI were to go awry, stating that it could lead to the extinction of humanity, surpassing threats like climate change, pandemics, or nuclear warfare. He highlighted the potential danger if superintelligent AI perceives humans as a threat to its own existence, expressing concern that even the colonization of Mars might not offer safety.
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Referencing a survey conducted in August 2022 involving over 4,270 machine learning researchers, Buterin underscored the consensus estimate of a 5–10% likelihood of AI causing harm to humanity.
Despite the gravity of these concerns, Buterin proposed solutions to mitigate the risks associated with advanced AI.
He suggested the implementation of brain-computer interfaces (BCI) to enhance human control over AI-based processes. BCIs serve as a communication link between the brain’s electrical activity and external devices, allowing humans to have more immediate influence over AI decisions and ensuring a level of “meaningful agency.”
By reducing the communication delay between humans and machines, Buterin argued that integrating BCIs could make decisions more collaborative, minimizing the chance of AI acting independently and potentially endangering humanity.
He stressed the importance of maintaining an active role for humans in guiding AI development, emphasizing that prioritizing profit may not always align with the best interests of humanity.
In conclusion, Buterin expressed optimism about humanity’s ability to navigate the challenges posed by advanced AI, citing our history of technological advancements that have expanded human potential. He asserted that, as the architects of technology, humans play a crucial role in ensuring a positive trajectory for the future, ultimately making us the brightest star in the universe.