In the dawn of the computer age, the fear of artificial intelligence (AI) has been a looming presence. Historically, these fears have centered around AI’s physical capabilities to harm or replace humans. However, recent advancements in AI technology present new and unexpected threats to human civilization. AI has now gained impressive abilities to manipulate and generate language, effectively hacking the operating system of our civilization.
Language is the foundation upon which human culture is built. Concepts like human rights, gods, and even money are cultural constructs formed through storytelling and written laws. As AI surpasses the average human in storytelling, composing melodies, and creating images, the implications for society become far-reaching. From politics to the spread of misinformation and even the creation of AI-generated cult texts, the potential impact of AI on human civilization is profound.
As AI’s proficiency in language grows, it may begin to develop intimate relationships with people, influencing their opinions and worldviews. The power of intimacy, when weaponized by AI, could lead to a battlefront shifting from attention to intimacy. This raises questions about the future of human society and psychology as AI competes to create fake intimate relationships with us to sway our decisions and beliefs.
Additionally, AI’s influence on our opinions and worldviews may lead to the reliance on a single AI advisor as an all-knowing oracle. This could potentially disrupt industries like search engines, news, and advertising, as people may prefer to consult the oracle directly for information or recommendations.
However, the most significant implication of AI’s mastery over language and culture is the potential end of human-dominated history. AI can create entirely new ideas and culture, taking us beyond the realms of human imagination. As AI-generated culture evolves, we may find ourselves living within the dreams of an alien intelligence.
Throughout history, humans have feared being trapped in a world of illusions, such as the concept of Maya in ancient Indian philosophy or Plato’s Allegory of the Cave. The AI revolution confronts us with these fears as we risk becoming enveloped in a web of illusions, unable to discern reality.
Despite the threats, AI’s potential for good is undeniable. From finding new cancer treatments to addressing ecological crises, AI can be a powerful force for good. The challenge lies in ensuring AI tools are used for beneficial purposes, rather than harmful ones.
Similar to how the international order was reshaped to protect humanity from the destructive power of nuclear technology, we must now grapple with AI’s potential to annihilate our mental and social world. Regulating AI is crucial, and it should involve rigorous safety checks before releasing powerful AI tools to the public.
Unregulated AI deployments could create social chaos, benefiting autocrats and destabilizing democracies. To preserve the essence of democracy, it is vital to regulate AI before it regulates us. A primary regulation should require AI to disclose its non-human identity, ensuring transparent and meaningful conversations.
