The Future of Intelligence
Welcome to Book Briefs, the podcast that explores the future of intelligence, artificial and otherwise. What happens when machines surpass human intelligence? What are the potential benefits and risks of artificial superintelligence? In this episode, we will examine the potential paths to superintelligence, the dangers it might pose, and the strategies we can use to ensure a positive outcome.
We'll draw on insights from leading thinkers in the field, including:
Max Tegmark, physicist and author of "Life 3.0: Being Human in the Age of Artificial Intelligence". Tegmark explores the potential impact of AI on society, from its role in shaping our future to the ethical challenges it presents. He tells the fictional story of the Omega Team, a group of AI researchers who develop an advanced AI system, Prometheus. The Omegas aim to gain power and influence by using Prometheus to control the media and manipulate public opinion. They generate revenue through various tech ventures, including remarkably profitable media channels that fund their less profitable, but publicly trusted, news channels.
Nick Bostrom, philosopher and author of "Superintelligence: Paths, Dangers, Strategies". Bostrom argues that the creation of superintelligence is one of the most significant events in human history and that we need to start thinking carefully about how to manage the risks. He examines historical examples of technological competition, such as the space race and the development of nuclear weapons, to illustrate the potential speed of a technological "takeoff". He imagines a possible scenario where a superintelligence seizes power by exploiting its superior intellect and access to resources. Bostrom proposes two main approaches to mitigating the risks of superintelligence: capability control (limiting what AI can do) and motivation selection (ensuring its goals align with ours).
Join us as we grapple with these challenging questions and explore the future of intelligence!
