Future of Life Institute issues letter calling for pause on AI research.

A group of AI experts and researchers have written an open letter calling for a pause on the development of AI systems more powerful than GPT-4 for at least six months. Extensive research and top AI labs acknowledge that such systems could greatly risk society and humanity, according to the authors. The letter, which was issued by the non-profit Future of Life Institute (FLI) was signed by over 1,000 individuals.

These included notable figures such as Musk, CEO Emad Mostaque of Stability AI, researchers from DeepMind (an Alphabet-owned company), and AI experts Yoshua Bengio and Stuart Russell.

Separately, a report by Goldman Sachs (NYSE: GS) claims AI could replace the equivalent of 300 million full-time jobs, though it may also help create new jobs and unleash productivity benefits.

Letter: Pause AI research

The letter from FLI highlights concerns around the potential impact of advanced AI on society, including the automation of jobs, the development of non-human minds that could outsmart and replace humans, and the risk of loss of control.

The authors argue that powerful AI systems should only be developed once their effects have been thoroughly considered, and confidence is well justified.

During this period of pause, AI labs and independent experts must collaborate to establish and implement stringent safety protocols for the advanced design and development of AI, which should be subject to rigorous auditing and oversight by independent and outside experts.

Additionally, AI developers must work with policymakers to accelerate the development of robust AI governance systems. The authors stress that humanity can enjoy a flourishing future with AI, but only if its development is managed with care and resources.

AI and the loss of jobs

Meanwhile, the report from Goldman Sachs suggests that generative AI could replace up to 300 million jobs in the future.

The report states that around two-thirds of current jobs are exposed to some degree of AI automation, and generative AI could substitute up to one-fourth of current work. The administrative and legal sectors are most at risk, while physically intensive professions are facing low risk.

However, the report also suggests that technological progress may lead to new jobs and a productivity boom, potentially boosting global GDP by as much as 7 percent.

Bill Gates on AI

Notably, earlier this month, Microsoft (NASDAQ: MSFT) co-founder Bill Gates described OpenAI’s GPT AI model as the most significant technological development since the introduction of the modern graphical user interface in 1980. Gates saw a parallel between the GUI’s impact and OpenAI’s GPT models, which can generate human-like text and nearly usable computer code.

AI is a revolution on par with the PC and the Internet, Gates observed. “I’m just as excited about this moment.”

Related Story:  Gates Calls AI (Such As GPT) A Revolution on Par With The PC And Internet

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