Numerous influential figures have united in their concern over the development of advanced artificial intelligence. A diverse coalition, which includes billionaires, former government officials, prominent researchers, and even members of the British royal family, aims to halt the progression of “superintelligence.” This term refers to artificial intelligence that would exceed human cognitive capabilities.
Key Details of the Petition
The Future of Life Institute, a non-profit organization, spearheaded this movement. Notably, Elon Musk serves as an external advisor to the institute. The petition advocates for a moratorium on the development of superintelligence until two critical conditions are met: a broad scientific consensus confirming its safety and significant public support.
Notable Signatories
- Billionaire Richard Branson
- Apple co-founder Steve Wozniak
- The Duke and Duchess of Sussex, Harry and Meghan
- Right-wing media personalities Glenn Beck and Steve Bannon
- Evangelical leader Johnnie Moore
- AI experts Yoshua Bengio and Geoffrey Hinton
- Former U.S. National Security Adviser Susan Rice
- Former Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff Michael Mullen
As of Wednesday morning, approximately 850 individuals have signed the petition, expressing their concerns regarding the risks associated with advanced AI systems.
Statements from Signatories
Yoshua Bengio, a leading figure in AI research, emphasized the urgency of the situation. He stated that frontier AI systems might soon outperform most people in various cognitive tasks. He insists on the necessity to design AI that cannot harm humans, whether through misalignment or malicious use. Additionally, he advocates for greater public involvement in pivotal decisions impacting collective futures.
Stuart Russell, another renowned AI researcher, clarified that the petition does not demand a blanket ban on AI. Instead, it suggests implementing robust safety measures for technology that, according to its creators, holds a significant risk of human extinction.
Contextual Background
This petition is not the first initiative from the Future of Life Institute. In March 2023, it published a similar petition calling for a pause on “Giant AI Experiments.” Notably, Elon Musk was among those who signed that earlier petition. Although Musk leads his own AI ventures now, his involvement in the latest petition remains uncertain. Since 2015, the institute’s AI research program has benefitted from a considerable donation of $10 million from Musk, highlighting his ongoing concerns about the potential threats posed by advanced AI.
