Why We Should Remain Skeptical About the Latest AI Hype
Recent months have brought a wave of extraordinary claims about artificial intelligence, including alleged hacking capabilities, major mathematical breakthroughs, and the possibility of self-improving superintelligence.
AI Hype, Hacking Claims and the Push for Urgency
In each case, companies have publicized the alleged breakthroughs extensively, prompting intense media coverage. However, when experts take the time to investigate what actually happened, a very different picture often emerges.
There are strong commercial incentives for companies to exaggerate the capabilities of AI. The authors argue that the sense of speed and urgency promoted by technology companies may also be intended to influence policymakers and mislead the public.
For these reasons, they say the public should approach dramatic claims about AI capabilities with skepticism and carefully examine the evidence behind them.
Must-Read AI and Technology News
We scoured the internet to find the most entertaining, important, scary and fascinating technology stories today.
1. Twenty-Two Countries Call for a New Global Body to Oversee AI
Twenty-two countries are calling for the creation of a new international body to oversee artificial intelligence. They want pre-deployment testing and common AI safety standards.
- Neither the United States nor China is included in the new declaration. NBC News
- OpenAI has proposed its own global AI safety standard. Axios
- The company wants the United States to lead the international effort. Reuters ($)
- Can AI really kill us all? MIT Technology Review
2. Texas and California Move to Curb Data Center Growth
Texas has suspended new data center permits pending an audit of its power grid.
- California has passed new laws covering data center electricity and water use. Los Angeles Times ($)
- The data center is great. Everyone hates them. MIT Technology Review
Source: www.technologyreview.com