Debating AI's Existential Threat: Myths, Realities, and the Road Ahead

As AI technology rapidly evolves, concerns about its potential to pose an existential risk are mounting. While experts remain divided, some argue the true danger lies in human misuse, rather than AI's capabilities. Thoughtful regulation and oversight are critical to safely integrating AI into society and mitigating risks.

The pervasive presence of artificial intelligence (AI) has sparked a heated debate over its potential existential risks. As experts probe this topic, they grapple with claims ranging from AI's extraordinary promise to dystopian predictions of human extinction.

Among the most vocal critics is Geoffrey Hinton, the so-called 'godfather of AI,' who estimates a 10-20% chance that AI could lead to human extinction in the next 30 years. However, three out of five surveyed experts counter that AI's current risk lies more with human error and irresponsible deployment rather than the advancement of AI itself.

Proponents of caution argue that as AI models gain general-purpose capabilities, the potential for their misuse intensifies, particularly in defense contexts. Calls for regulatory frameworks are intensifying as discussions emphasize the need for global cooperation to ensure AI development aligns with human values and safeguards society against potential harms.

(With inputs from agencies.)