10 reasons I think this petition to halt AI development is questionable
As you know, Elon Musk and other AI industry executives have signed an open letter calling for a six-month pause in developing AI systems more potent than OpenAI's GPT-4. This is due to potential risks to society. He is afraid that machines will use information channels with propaganda and misinformation.
I think this is a red herring for something loathsome in the works. As a rule, I find that when the mainstream media unilaterally supports something like this. It's generally a bad idea.
1. Elon Musk has FOMO
Elon seem to have a grudge against OpenAI, and this is his petty retaliation against OpenAI and Microsoft. Because he squandered a fantastic opportunity, it's a case of sour grapes.
2. Oppurtunity for other countries to catchup
If one country or region stops AI development for six months, it could allow other countries or regions to accelerate their own AI research and development, potentially giving them a competitive advantage in the long term.
3. Publicity stunt to raise the profile of so called concerned citizens
I think this is a way for certain people to raise their standing and profile by tapping into the fear of the general populace.
4. Regulation is an effective way to block out new entrants and consolidate power
This is a tried and true way to prevent new businesses from entering a market and only allow an oligopoly of big companies should control the field. It's happened in the past with energy, banking and diamonds industries.
5. Generative AI has upset to the power balance
We are only a few steps away from massively disintermediation production houses and writing. Imagine being able to build an entire movie from a set of prompts
6. Regulation stifles innovation
AI is a rapidly advancing field that has the potential to bring significant benefits to society. A six-month pause on development could slow down progress and innovation in the field, which could be detrimental to future developments.
7. Difficulty in setting boundaries
Setting clear boundaries for AI development could be challenging, and experts may disagree on what constitutes an "unsafe" AI system.
Who gets to decide this? A committee headed by Elon Musk? or a bunch off paid bureaucrats in government?
8. Risk of losing top talent
Many AI researchers and developers are highly sought after and may be attracted to other countries or industries if development is slowed or halted in their current location.
9. Curtail investments
Many companies have been ramping up their investment in AI, and by halting development, you are putting those contracts in jeopardy.
10. Critical improvement to humanity
AI has the potential to solve many pressing problems in areas such as healthcare, climate change, and transportation. Halting development for six months could delay important advancements in these areas.
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