Why the World Needs to Act Now on AI

The world needs immediate action on artificial intelligence due to its rapid development and potential risks. According to a preliminary report by the United Nations Independent International Scientific Panel, AI has the capability to significantly advance sustainable development goals but must be managed carefully to mitigate associated threats [UN News] ¹.

[AI specialist] I think it's important to clarify what a "strong AI" is. There isn't really a clear definition of when an artificial intelligence becomes strong relative to humans, because the human cognitive capability spectrumb from very young children all the way up into the upper limits of expert knowledge in fields like theoretical physics has no simple quantitative characterization. So basically, we have these vague fears that maybe one day an artificial intelligence will become unfettered and surpass us for being stupid. And I'm not saying this doesn't warrant some level of concern... But the reality is our defense mechanisms against malevolent AIs are not based on any sort of technological countermeasures but rather social and regulatory measures (eg: making sure gatekeepers controlling access to certain technology are diverse and representative of society as a whole). So they're effective enough so long as society remains stable and functional and doesn't descend into chaos. Which it very well might do in the next few decades.