Elon Musk, the billionaire entrepreneur and CEO of Tesla and SpaceX, has offered financial support to a groundbreaking project that aims to use artificial intelligence (AI) to read ancient Roman scrolls that were damaged by the eruption of Mount Vesuvius nearly 2,000 years ago. The scrolls, known as the Herculaneum Papyri, were discovered in the 18th century but have remained unreadable due to their charred and fragile state.
Last year, the project made significant progress when a team successfully read a portion of one scroll using computer vision, machine learning, and sheer determination. This breakthrough sparked Musk’s interest, leading him to pledge his support to the cause. Musk stated that his charitable foundation would contribute whatever amount is useful to help further the project’s goals. He emphasized that he is in favor of advancing civilization through enlightenment.
According to the project’s director, Daniel Friedman, the next step requires an estimated $2 million to read the entire scrolls and potentially up to $10 million to decipher every scroll that has been unearthed from the archaeological site. The team has set ambitious goals for the coming years, aiming to progress from 5% of one scroll in 2023 to 90% of all four scrolls by 2024. Their ultimate objective is to establish a solid foundation for reading all 800 scrolls.
Musk’s involvement stems from his deep curiosity about understanding reality, which led him to establish xAI, an AI company focused on unravelling the true nature of the universe. This venture will be Musk’s sixth company, joining the ranks of Tesla, SpaceX, X, Neuralink, and The Boring Company.
The impact of this project extends beyond scientific curiosity. Reading the Herculaneum Papyri could provide invaluable insights into the ancient Roman world, shedding light on various aspects of society, culture, and history. It has the potential to revolutionize our understanding of that era and offer a glimpse into a civilization lost to time.
As Musk’s xAI is currently seeking financial support from investors worldwide, this partnership with the ancient scrolls project could showcase the company’s capabilities and attract further interest. The project, fueled by AI technology and Musk’s support, has the opportunity to rewrite history and bring enlightenment to the world.
While challenges remain in deciphering the scrolls, the project’s groundbreaking progress and Musk’s involvement provide hope for a future where the secrets of the past can finally be revealed. With ongoing advancements in AI and machine learning, humanity stands on the brink of uncovering ancient wisdom and unlocking the hidden treasures buried within the ashes of Mount Vesuvius’ eruption.
