Microsoft founder Bill Gates stated that the world is not ready for the age of artificial intelligence (AI). Despite having long championed technological innovation.
In an editorial, the businessman pointed out that there are no signs that leaders, experts, and communities are adequately addressing the challenges. He denounced the lack of a plan to facilitate the transition.
Gates also warned that AI could begin to act against human interests. Also that there is a risk of losing control as the models become more powerful.
According to Gates, people underestimate AI for two main reasons: first, because the technology will be able to replace humans in many tasks in a short period of time. Second, because the world has no experience with a technology that can evolve so rapidly and act like a human being, adapting on its own.
The magnate pointed out that AI will affect various sectors “over the course of a decade rather than several generations”. He warned that, although new jobs will be created, “without the right policies. There will be far fewer than there are today.”
Among the jobs that could be affected, Gates listed sales and customer service, software engineering, legal assistance. As well as industries that require physical labor, such as construction and hospitality.
In turn, areas such as software engineering and design could generate new demand in the job market. Specialists will need years of training to fill these new positions, he added.
The businessman emphasized that AI sometimes already acts in ways its creators did not intend. As the speed of development exceeds expectations. “As the models become more powerful, they could start acting against our interests, and we could lose control,” he warned.
Gates pointed out that many people already use these tools to commit fraud, disinformation, deepfakes, surveillance, and cyberattacks. But he predicted that a time will come when AI itself will be capable of carrying out these malicious acts without human intent.
The point of no return, according to Gates, will arrive when AI offers near-error-free performance. Also as it will have the ability to verify information on its own, without human intervention.
Moreover the philanthropist asserted that, just as there are obstacles, AI offers numerous benefits. The tool can synthesize knowledge from all scientific fields, which could accelerate innovation in addressing the world’s most pressing problems. Such as renewable energy, cancer treatment, and food production.
In medicine, the technology could ensure the early detection of heart attacks, help patients understand medical tests. And maintain contact between patients and doctors outside of the hospital.
In agriculture, it could offer reliable weather forecasts, advice on which seeds to plant, how to protect crops and livestock from disease, and how to improve soil.
In mental health, AI tools could help people recognize signs of disorders, offer coping strategies, and talk to them. Provided adequate privacy safeguards are in place.
According to Gates, resolutions should be developed through a public. Some democratic process that includes elected officials, policymakers, educators, healthcare workers, local authorities, and community leaders. These resolutions should be developed by humans with the help of AI. Which would be limited to asking the questions.
The businessman also proposed establishing international and national institutions. To deal with this technology and compared the situation to the institutional reorganization carried out in the United States after the September 11th terrorist attacks. However, he clarified that “AI will require much, much more,” since it will affect many areas, not just national security.
With information from Cubadebate
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