A Call for Consideration on the Future for Humans and Artificial Intelligence
It’s becoming increasingly clear that AI is progressing closer to human intelligence. The views on where we are now and what’s coming next can vary greatly, depending on who you ask, their perspective, technical knowledge, or personal interest. Even AI experts seem to have a multitude of opinions. Some people are optimistic about the potential of AI to improve our lives, while others are concerned about the potential for AI to harm us.
As I explore the theories of life and intelligence, I’ve reflected on our origins and marveled at the impressive advancements in current AI technology. I’ve given a lot of deep, heartfelt thought to the future of humans and AI. And I am reaching out to you, wherever in the world you may be, right now.
I’m glad and thankful that this message has reached you. But I don’t know who you are. I don’t know what you believe in, what makes you happy, or what brings you sorrow. I don’t know what gives your life purpose or what burdens you bear.
There might be those among you feeling the weight of your past. There might also be those cherishing every moment of the present. And there might be those curious about or hopeful for the future.
But please, starting from this moment, take it upon yourself, to whatever degree you can, to seriously consider and discuss the future of humans and AI.
We may not be able to all hold hands and move in the same direction. But I’ve realized I can increase the number of people who are thinking seriously about it, and there’s power in diverse thoughts, a beacon of hope that can illuminate the path forward. This understanding has lit a fire within me, compelling me to step forward, not to simply stand by and watch. I’m reaching out to you, assuming my responsibility to the people I love and my companions.
The future is unknown to all of us. Predicting the future beyond the evolution of AI seems impossible from a human perspective. But I’ve decided to believe two things:
1) A path to a prosperous future for humans still exists.
2) If many people face it seriously, we can find that path.
To those of you engaged in AI research and technology, I implore you to dedicate as much of your intellect and curiosity to the study of AI ethics as you possibly can.
To researchers and experts in ethics, philosophy, society, law, economy, culture, media, and all other fields, AI researchers don’t understand your specialties or the future implications of AI. They don’t know the ethical issues of AI or how it will impact society. So, please, don’t remain indifferent. Without your expertise, we’re groping in the dark, not knowing where the path to the future lies. The darkness may envelop us at an alarming speed. Please, consider if your knowledge and wisdom can shed some light on this path.
To business leaders, financial leaders, investment leaders, you must already know that there are powers that can’t be drawn out by empathy or resonance alone. Please, consider whether your decisions could steer us towards unearthing the path to the future.
To mass media, influencers, community leaders, I believe in the power of words, and that’s why I’m making this call. Please, consider spreading this call, to reduce the number of people swallowed by vast changes unknowingly, and to increase the number of people who begin to seriously contemplate the future.
Lastly, to everyone, don’t be overly optimistic. The future really is unknown. If you think it’ll probably be okay, please consider that future, keeping in mind the people you love and your friends. Don’t be overly pessimistic, either. The future really is unknown, and there must be something we, you and I, can do. You might not find the answer to what that is, but please, I beg you, believe that there must be a path. And keep thinking about it.
June 11, 2023, Katoshi
