A new documentary, Do You Trust This Computer?, explores the potential risks artificial intelligence could pose to humanity. The film is the work of Chris Pain, best known for his documentary Who Killed the Electric Car?
Paine includes interviews with several leading AI experts, but one of the most-thought provoking is with tech entrepreneur Elon Musk:
“The least scary future I can think of is one where we have at least democratized AI, because if one company or small group of people manages to develop godlike digital superintelligence, they could take over the world,” said Musk.
Musk also expressed his fear of an AI evolving into an “immortal dictator” that humanity could lose control over. He has been promoting the documentary on Twitter and posted a quote from Frankenstein that sums up his worries:
https://twitter.com/elonmusk/status/982168099582431232
The Artificial Intelligence World Society is dedicated to thinking about these risks and developing ethical standards to prevent them. If AI is designed safely and ethically, we can avoid its misuse or loss of control. We also agree with Musk’s sentiment about “democratized AI,” which is why we continue to work with policymakers and thought leaders around the world to ensure that new technology standards are shared openly and benefits everyone.
Do You Trust This Computer is free to watch on its website this weekend and will be available to rent thereafter.