Calay News
A group of researchers at New York University conducted a survey of natural language processing experts to get their opinions on controversial topics related to artificial intelligence (AI). The survey included questions about generative artificial intelligence (AGI), corporate influence in the AI field, and ethical concerns. Respondents were asked to indicate whether they agreed or disagreed with a series of statements.
In relation to AGI, two statements were posed: that AI could soon lead to “revolutionary social change” and that its decisions could cause a “nuclear-scale catastrophe.” Seventy-three percent of respondents agreed that the automation of labor could lead to “revolutionary social change.” 36% agreed that AI has the power to cause “catastrophic results” on the level of an “all-out nuclear war.” Of those respondents who agreed, 53% identified themselves as underrepresented minorities.
However, the researchers note that the results should be interpreted with caution. The sample may be biased toward men, senior academics and researchers, and Americans. Some respondents chose not to answer the question about the catastrophic effects of AI because they felt the question was “too strong.”
The survey was conducted before the launch of ChatGPT, a Microsoft-powered text generator that has reignited controversy over whether AI has arrived to eliminate jobs. If the survey were conducted again today, the answers could be very different. While AI has the potential to transform society, many business leaders and experts in the AI field are concerned about its potential risks.
