Ethereum Co-Founder Vitalik Buterin Discusses AI Risks and Human Intervention
According to Cointelegraph, Ethereum co-founder Vitalik Buterin believes that unchecked super-advanced artificial intelligence (AI) has a serious chance of surpassing humans and becoming the next apex species on Earth. However, he also suggests that human intervention in AI development could help prevent this outcome.
In a recent blog post, Buterin raised concerns about the potential dangers of AI, stating that it has the ability to create a new type of mind that could potentially turn against human interests. He cited a survey of machine learning researchers who estimated a 5-10% chance of AI causing human extinction. While he recognized these claims as extreme, Buterin emphasized that there are ways for humans to maintain control over AI.
Buterin proposed integrating brain-computer interfaces (BCI) as a means of giving humans greater control over AI-based computation and cognition. BCIs act as communication pathways between the brain’s electrical activity and external devices like computers or robotic limbs. By reducing the communication loop between humans and machines to milliseconds, BCIs ensure that humans retain a certain level of agency in the world.
We need to focus on developing more advanced brain-computer interfaces to give humans a meaningful degree of control over AI. This will enable us to maintain our position as the dominant species on Earth, Buterin stated.
However, he acknowledged that integrating BCI technology comes with its own set of challenges and potential risks. Ethical considerations, safety protocols, and ensuring equal access to this technology were highlighted as crucial factors in its development.
While Buterin’s views on AI risks might seem extreme to some, they serve as an important reminder for society to stay proactive rather than reactive when it comes to the evolving capabilities of artificial intelligence.
In summary, Vitalik Buterin, Ethereum co-founder, has warned about the potential risks of unchecked AI development. He believes that AI has the potential to surpass humans and become the next dominant species. However, he also emphasizes the importance of human intervention, suggesting that brain-computer interfaces (BCI) could help maintain control over AI. Buterin’s insights highlight the need for responsible and thoughtful development of emerging technologies to ensure they align with human interests and values.
