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Is the obsession with attaining AGI and AI superintelligence actually derailing progress in AI?
While some may argue that the relentless pursuit of artificial general intelligence (AGI) and artificial superintelligence (ASI) is hindering true progress in AI, others vehemently disagree. As Dr. Lance B. Eliot explains, this fervent focus on AGI/ASI has become a misguided obsession, leading to an array of detrimental consequences.
In his latest Forbes column, Dr. Eliot delves into the notion that the quest for AGI and ASI is stymied by six key traps. These obstacles not only hinder AI development but also contribute to a lack of transparency in AI research. By prioritizing specificity in engineering and societal goals, fostering innovation through inclusivity, and avoiding distractions, Dr. Eliot argues that we must reassess our approach.
However, proponents of the AGI/ASI pursuit argue that the concept serves as an aspirational goal, inspiring AI developers and researchers to push boundaries in AI. They also claim that a significant portion of the AI community is genuinely committed to sound advancements in AI, regardless of whether they’re tied to AGI or ASI.
Dr. Eliot maintains that the momentum behind AGI/ASI is too strong to be halted. The allure of this goal has captured the public’s imagination and it is difficult to envision anything powerful enough to bring it to a halt. However, he does propose a possible scenario where AI pursuits fizzle out and people become disillusioned with the concept of AGI as a pipe dream. In that case, a new name would emerge to replace it, effectively keeping the focus on a single, overarching goal.
In conclusion, while some may argue that the pursuit of AGI/ASI is derailing progress in AI, others believe it serves as a clarifying messaging that drives innovation and motivates AI builders and researchers.
Source: www.forbes.com
