Primer: The Threat of AI

Artificial intelligence is everywhere now. You get AI responses when you Google something. You can talk to a chatbot on Snapchat whenever you want. Every syllabus has some sort of policy on ChatGPT. But the population does not really understand how AI works, and many have difficulty distinguishing an AI-generated image from a real picture. It’s unclear exactly what road we’re walking down when it comes to this technology, which can perhaps fundamentally reshape humanity’s future. This brings us to this week’s Halloween-edition debate resolution: Artificial Intelligence poses a significant threat to humanity. 

The pro side can point to the experts themselves. Hundreds of AI experts signed an open letter in 2023 warning that AI brings risk of extinction. The scary scenario would be one where AI systems handle business or warfare and will do whatever it takes to accomplish their task – the classic example being that they will transform everything into paper clip factories when asked to create as many paper clips as possible. A future where AI systems are more autonomous and can control infrastructure like power grids, stock markets, or military weapons leaves humanity vulnerable. Outside of these doomsday scenarios, AI might have the power to transform our economy as the technology can replace simple, low-skill jobs. This social transformation from potential mass unemployment could cause all sorts of adverse effects. AI can also be harmful to society by promoting disinformation that muddies up the truth. Lastly, it can exacerbate the abuse of minorities by spreading hateful rhetoric and racist media, in addition to the fact that facial recognition is probably racially biased

The con side can claim that hysteria about AI risk is overblown and overlooks its wide benefits to society. AI can make work easier for students and professionals, handling easier tasks and saving time to boost productivity. This can help streamline the economy and make us more efficient than ever. Our economic growth is dependent on innovation and productivity, so AI will ensure strong growth for years to come, enriching society and improving lives. The concerns over creative destruction are also ridiculous - any new technology will destroy some old jobs, but that’s not a justification for stalling progress. That’s just being a Luddite. AI may not be perfect, but it’s still early in its development process, and improvements will follow. It’s fear-mongering to claim that it’s a significant threat to humanity when it has the ability to make lives easier across society.

Come join us for the debate this Monday at 7pm in Scott Hall!

"ChatGPT" by focal5 is licensed under CC BY-NC 2.0.

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