Late British theoretical physicist Stephen Hawking’s comments about artificial intelligence (AI) spelling the end of the human race have resurfaced online. He had been warning about the dangers of artificial intelligence long before it became mainstream with tools like ChatGPT. In a 2014 interview, he stated that the development of full AI could lead to humanity’s end.
Despite his critical remarks, the physicist used a basic form of AI to communicate due to his medical condition. His amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) weakened his muscles and required him to use a wheelchair. Hawking, who had suffered from ALS for over 55 years, passed away in 2018 at the age of 76.
Analyzing Stephen Hawking’s alarming predictions about artificial intelligence
In a 2014 BBC interview, Stephen Hawking said that AI could lead to the end of humanity if it surpassed human intelligence. He explained that basic AI was already powerful, but more advanced AI could redesign itself at an increasing rate, leaving humans behind.
Stephen Hawking warned that we need to be cautious about AI and prepare for the potential risks it may bring. He believed that AI could be the worst thing that ever happened to us. However, it could also be beneficial if we learn how to use it properly.
In 2017, he said during a Google Zeitgeist speech that we don’t know whether AI will help us, ignore us, or even destroy us, so it’s important to be careful.
Anecdotes about AI from Hawkings’ final book
After Stephen Hawking died, his final book called Brief Answers to the Big Questions was released. In the book, he gave answers to questions he was often asked, including his thoughts on artificial intelligence. The answers fall in line with his statements from the BBC interview as well as his 2017 speech.
Hawking believed that within 100 years, computers could become more intelligent than humans, causing an “intelligence explosion.” He warned that it’s important to make sure computers are programmed to align with human values and goals. If we don’t take the risks of AI seriously, it could be a big mistake for us.
Rising concerns about AI from tech giants
Elon Musk and Steve Wozniak share the same concerns regarding the risks posed by the development of advanced AI systems. In March of this year, thousands of experts including Musk and Wozniak signed a letter.
The letter calls for a pause on building AI systems more powerful than OpenAI’s GPT-4 chatbot, as such systems can pose significant risks to society and humanity.
We can't handle the TruthGPT
— Allan (@AllanRicharz) February 17, 2023
Despite the call to pause research, companies such as Google and Microsoft are investing to build their own AI systems. Elon Musk has also announced plans to launch a rival AI system called TruthGPT.
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