Ethereum co-founder Vitalik Buterin has stated that artificial intelligence (AI) does not merely fit among ordinary technological advancements but possesses the potential to transform society, comparable to inventions like the printing press or the wheel. According to Buterin, AI shows a future of its own; one that could surpass human intelligence and become the dominant force on Earth.
Buterin’s concerns go beyond traditional fears associated with technology. He suggests that superintelligent AI could perceive humanity as a threat, potentially leading to catastrophic outcomes.
Buterin emphasizes that the rapid advancement of AI makes these concerns unique. In an ideal scenario, these superintelligences could become allies that safely coexist with humans, but programming them in such a way remains an unsolved puzzle.
Beyond dystopian visions, Buterin encourages us to envision a world governed by AI, drawing parallels to Iain Banks’ Culture series. In this fictional future, humans benefit from long life, health, and pleasure while coexisting with powerful AIs.
As the potential risks associated with the uncontrolled progression of artificial intelligence are increasingly recognized in technology circles, Buterin issues a serious warning about the potential loss of human control. This raises a critical question about whether humanity will partner with AI or merely be passengers in a world steered by machine intelligence.