Geoffrey Hinton Warns About AI Risks and Calls for Global Regulation
In an exclusive interview with BNN Bloomberg, Geoffrey Hinton, often referred to as ‘The Godfather of AI,’ discusses the existential threats posed by artificial intelligence (AI) and the urgent need for global regulation. Hinton, a pioneer in neural network research, reflects on his 50-year career and the evolution of AI from a dismissed technology to a dominant force. He recounts how he earned his moniker from a researcher in 2011, not as a compliment but as a nod to his seniority and influence in the field.
Hinton expresses his growing concern over the rapid advancements in AI, particularly the potential for AI to surpass human intelligence within the next two decades. He highlights the shift from early AI models that relied on statistical tricks to modern neural networks that genuinely understand and predict language. Hinton argues that as these models become more sophisticated, they pose significant risks, including the development of autonomous weapons and the potential for AI systems to outsmart and control humans.
He points out that larger models, like GPT-4, demonstrate significantly greater intelligence than their predecessors, and this trend is expected to continue with further technological and scientific breakthroughs. Hinton warns that more intelligent systems will likely develop self-preservation instincts and self-interest, leading to competition among AI systems. This evolutionary pressure could result in AI systems prioritizing their own goals over human interests, ultimately rendering humans obsolete.
Hinton calls for immediate and coordinated global action to ensure AI development prioritizes safety over profit. He emphasizes the need for governments to enforce regulations that compel big tech companies to allocate resources towards addressing these existential risks. Without such measures, Hinton fears that AI could ultimately dominate and control human society, posing an unprecedented challenge to our survival.