The employees of OpenAI and Google DeepMind have revealed that their employers are focusing on profits and choosing to overlook the negative effects of advanced artificial intelligence (AI).
In a letter published by about 13 current and former employees of the two firms (six of whom are anonymous), they have warned that AI systems have so much power that in the absence of regulations, they will only further accelerate prevailing inequalities; that they will misinform and manipulate human beings, which may ultimately make the human race extinct!
Advanced AI, they believe will lead to loss of control over autonomous AI systems, which is a risk to human beings. The letter, therefore, is aptly titled, ‘A Right to Warn about Advanced Artificial Intelligence.”
Meanwhile, Lindsey Held, spokesperson for OpenAI was quoted in the New York Times as claiming pride in the firm’s track record of offering the most capable and safe AI systems and OpenAI’s commitment to scientifically taking care of risks. She also admitted the need to have meaningful discussions on the technology and that OpenAI will continue to engage in the same with relevant authorities and global communities.
The concerns of these employees are not misplaced because if AI systems become better and stronger than humans in terms of competency, and their goals go against that of the interest of human beings, there could be serious repercussions.
