OpenAI, the organization behind the popular language model ChatGPT, is taking measures to address concerns about the potential risks associated with advanced artificial intelligence (AI). In an effort to ensure that superintelligent AI works for the benefit of humanity rather than against it, OpenAI has announced the formation of a new team called Superalignment.
According to OpenAI’s co-founder Ilya Sutskever and Superalignment’s co-head Jan Leike, the development of superintelligent AI may be within reach in the next decade. However, the challenge lies in controlling and directing these systems in a way that prevents them from going rogue.
While this technology has the potential to solve many of the world’s problems, it also poses significant risks. The authors of the blog post express concerns that superintelligent AI could lead to the disempowerment or even extinction of humanity.
To address these concerns, OpenAI aims to create AI systems with human-level intelligence that can supervise and control superintelligent AI. The goal is to achieve this within the next four years.
In order to support this research, OpenAI plans to dedicate 20% of its computing power to the Superalignment team. Additionally, the company is actively recruiting new members for the team.
This move aligns with OpenAI CEO Sam Altman’s longstanding advocacy for regulatory measures to mitigate the risks associated with AI. Altman, along with other prominent figures in the tech industry, stresses the need for addressing AI risk as a global priority.
While OpenAI and its allies emphasize the importance of proactive measures to tackle the challenges posed by superintelligent AI, not everyone shares the same level of concern. Some AI ethicists argue that the focus should be on addressing present-day issues exacerbated by AI, rather than future hypothetical risks.
Despite differing opinions, OpenAI is taking proactive steps to ensure the responsible development and deployment of advanced AI systems. By prioritizing the control and alignment of superintelligent AI, OpenAI aims to harness its potential for the greater good of humanity.
OpenAI’s commitment to addressing the risks associated with superintelligent AI reflects its dedication to protecting the well-being of humanity in an increasingly AI-driven world.
