Godfather of AI Warns of Powerful People Who Want Humans “Replaced by Machines”

The dual nature of intelligence presents both opportunities and challenges. Who will harness this power, and how will they manage it? These pressing questions were recently highlighted by Yoshua Bengio, a prominent voice in the realm of artificial intelligence.

In an engaging discussion with CNBC, Bengio, a trailblazer in AI innovation, voiced his apprehensions regarding the swift evolution of this technology. He cautioned that AI itself could create societal risks, and equally concerning is the prospect of the individuals steering this technology.

Bengio pointed to a faction of tech elites who envision AI as a tool to render human labor obsolete. He refers to this group as “fringe” and warns that if their influence goes unchecked, the implications could be severe. Alongside fellow AI researchers, Bengio has actively advocated for addressing these potential hazards through an open letter titled the “Right to Warn.”

During his speech at the One Young World Summit in Montreal, Bengio posed a critical question: “Intelligence grants power. Who will wield that power?” He underscored the necessity of implementing protective measures to mitigate the risks of AI misuse and emphasized the dire outcomes of allowing this technology to be controlled by the wrong entities.

Additionally, Bengio shed light on the financial aspects of AI development, which can reach astronomical sums in the billions. He expressed concern that such financial clout could result in a consolidation of power among a select few organizations and nations, ultimately affecting market dynamics, democratic processes, and global stability.

As the discourse among experts continues regarding the feasibility of achieving artificial general intelligence, Bengio stressed the critical need for regulations to be established promptly. He warned that without appropriate safeguards, the repercussions could be catastrophic.

Given his foundational contributions to AI, Bengio’s insights carry considerable significance. It is evident that while the advantages of AI are substantial, they are accompanied by equally formidable risks. It is our collective responsibility to ensure that we approach this transformative technology with caution and foresight.