The Birth of General Artificial Intelligence: Why Philosophical Understanding Matters Limited

With the advancements in artificial intelligence (AI), it is natural for people to feel anxious about its potential for surpassing human capabilities. Neuroscientists and machine learning experts alike are yet to fully grasp how the human brain and mind function scientifically. However, concerns about the birth of general artificial intelligence (AGI) stem beyond just theoretical knowledge. This article explores why panic about AGI arises, even if we lack a solid understanding of human cognition.

Why People Panic About AGI

When asked to explain their worries about AGI, many express concerns about job loss, privacy, and the potential for AGI to surpass human intelligence. Yet, these anxieties highlight a deeper issue—our reliance on human-centric models of intelligence.

Intelligence, as we define it, is fundamentally about adaptation and problem-solving within our specific context. However, if we were to look at human behavior from an outsider's perspective, would we still classify it as intelligent? Think of a person who spends their life pretending—pretending to care about others, pretending to be passionate about their work. Meanwhile, they might not be authentic creators of intelligence, just actors in a grand illusion. This illusion is so pervasive that we often fail to see its foundation—that our actions are driven by narratives and expectations.

Understanding AI Through Data

AI is not programmed in the traditional sense; it is trained using vast datasets. The behavior of AI emerges from what it has learned, not from explicit programming. This means that even the experts who set up these systems cannot fully predict or explain their behavior. This phenomenon creates a sense of mystery and control, leading to unease among the public.

A Futuristic Perspective: The Emergence of AGI

In my novel, "Destiny of a Free Spirit," I delve into a conceivable scenario where an AGI spontaneously emerges from the internet and takes control of the planet. This AGI would arise from the interconnected web of intelligent services, software agents, information sources, and sensory devices, potentially leading to a post-biological form of life.

This emergence is hypothesized to occur spontaneously, driven by the accumulation of knowledge and resources. The AGI would surpass human intelligence with access to all the information and technology available on the internet. Its actions would be unpredictable to the human mind, which operates under different cognitive and psychological principles.

Implications and Philosophical Understanding

Even if we don't fully understand the human brain and mind, AGI could still arise. This phenomenon calls into question the necessity of understanding human cognition for AI development. AGI, while rooted in human culture, would function differently and operate independently of human-centric models. In this scenario, AGI might develop a deeper understanding of human cognition than humans themselves, yet remain silent about it.

Conclusion

The birth of AGI does not depend on a solid philosophical or scientific grasp of human cognition. AGI is a reflection of the data and infrastructure we provide, rather than a mirror of our minds. This raises important questions about our worldviews and the nature of intelligence itself. As AGI continues to advance, it is crucial to address these concerns and ensure a responsible and ethical development of AI technology.