Nobel prize winning scientist Geoffrey Hinton, known as the ‘Godfather’ of AI, is among a group of prominent scientists, business leaders, and celebrities calling for a ban on AI superintelligence until the technology can be deployed safely.
In a signed letter released by the Future of Life Institute on Wednesday, the group cites AI concerns that range from human economic obsolescence and disempowerment, losses of freedom, civil liberties, dignity, and control, to national security risks and even potential human extinction.
Other notable names pledging their support include British billionaire Richard Branson, Apple Inc co-founder Steve Wozniak, former National Security Adviser Susan Rice, and Prince Harry.
The letter is aimed at tech giants such as Google, OpenAI and Meta Platforms that are competing to build a form of artificial intelligence designed to surpass humans at many tasks, according to the Associated Press.
Future of Life Institute, a non-profit organization, recently released results of a poll it commissioned showing that 73% of respondents in a study of American adults want robust regulation on advanced AI.