AI Pioneer Geoffrey Hinton Warns of Significant Risk to Humanity in the Next 30 Years
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Geoffrey Hinton, widely recognized as the "godfather" of artificial intelligence (AI), has issued a grave warning about the potential existential risks posed by the technology he helped pioneer. The British-Canadian computer scientist, who received the Nobel Prize in Physics earlier this year for his groundbreaking contributions to AI, estimates there is a 10% to 20% chance that advancements in AI could lead to human extinction within the next three decades.
Speaking on BBC Radio 4's Today programme, Hinton revealed that his concerns about AI's potential dangers have grown significantly over time. "If anything, the odds have increased," he remarked. "We've never before encountered something more intelligent than ourselves, and history offers few examples of a less intelligent entity controlling a more intelligent one. A mother and her baby might be the only exception evolution has given us."
Reflecting on AI Safety
Hinton candidly admitted regret over not prioritizing safety considerations earlier in his career. "I wish I'd thought about safety earlier," he said, alluding to fears that unchecked AI development could intensify global arms races.
In 2023, Hinton resigned from Google to voice his concerns more openly, warning of the potential for AI systems to surpass human intelligence and the risk of bad actors exploiting these advancements for harmful purposes. His departure made headlines as he joined a growing number of experts calling for greater regulation and ethical oversight in AI development.
Accelerated AI Progress Surprises Hinton
Hinton also expressed astonishment at the rapid pace of AI advancements, admitting that progress has outstripped even his expectations. "I didn't think we'd be where we are now. I believed this level of development would come further into the future," he said.
The scientist’s remarks highlight the duality of AI's promise and peril. While AI continues to revolutionize industries and daily life, experts like Hinton emphasize the urgent need to address its risks responsibly to ensure a safe and beneficial future for humanity.
Written by Dev Anand from Funnel Fix It Team
