You can find the original statement here: https://superintelligence-statement.org
What exactly is superintelligence – and why is everyone suddenly talking about it?
Artificial intelligence is appearing more and more often in the news. Most of the time, it’s about impressive applications, but sometimes it’s also about fears. “Superintelligence” may sound like science fiction at first, but behind it lies the idea that AI will eventually become smarter than us humans. Not just at math or chess, but in every field you can imagine.
Why is this suddenly such a big issue? Because AI systems are getting better and better, and many experts believe it is high time to think about the consequences.
What is the “Statement on Superintelligence” about?
The statement is an open call signed by renowned AI researchers, entrepreneurs, and scientists from around the world. Their message is clear: humanity should finally take the risks associated with the development of superintelligence seriously. A key quote reads:
“Mitigating the risk of extinction from artificial intelligence should be a global priority alongside other societal risks such as pandemics and nuclear war.”
With this sentence, the statement sums up what it is all about: AI is not treated as a mere technical gimmick, but as a potential existential threat. It is addressed to everyone – governments, companies, society, and also you as an individual.
What does the statement aim to achieve? – A wake-up call for us all
The signatories want to achieve three things:
- Raise awareness: Many people still underestimate how quickly AI is advancing. The statement aims to ensure that we don’t wait until it’s too late to start thinking about it.
- Acting together: The statement calls for rules to be established not only by individual countries or companies, but by the whole world.
- Taking responsibility: It’s about taking responsibility for the future – right now.
What exactly does the statement call for?
Here’s the practical part: The statement itself is deliberately short and concise, but there’s a lot between the lines. The most important demands can be summarized as follows:
- Safety precautions from the outset: The development of AI systems should not happen blindly – safety measures must grow alongside them.
- Global cooperation: “The challenge is too great for lone warriors.” Only when countries and companies pull together can risks be controlled.
- Transparency and clear responsibilities: Those who develop AI must disclose how it works and what it can do.
“We must not downplay the risks or postpone them until later.”
Why does all this affect you? – More than just a topic for nerds
You may be thinking, “This all sounds pretty far-fetched – does it even affect me?” The honest answer is yes, and more than you might think. Imagine a superintelligence making decisions about the healthcare system, the economy, or even political processes. This could have a massive impact on your everyday life – whether you’re an AI developer, a student, a pensioner, or a gamer.
At the same time, AI offers incredible opportunities – from new medical therapies to climate-friendly technologies. But to ensure that these opportunities are not overshadowed by incalculable risks, it is important to ask questions and have a say now.
Who is behind the statement – and what do others say about it?
The statement was signed by personalities such as Geoffrey Hinton, Yoshua Bengio, and Sam Altman (OpenAI) – names that carry weight in the AI world. They stand for an open and responsible approach to the technology.
Many welcome the statement as an important impetus. They say, “Finally, someone is speaking plainly!” But there are also critical voices: some find the warning too general and demand more details, while others warn against exaggerated panic that could slow down innovation. Still others point out that today’s AI already poses many problems, such as fairness and data protection.
The superintelligence debate: Time to get involved!
The Statement on Superintelligence is not alarmist, but a wake-up call. It says: We should all engage with AI before it overwhelms us – and not wait until it’s too late.
“It is our shared responsibility to shape the future of AI so that it benefits all people.”
Whether you’re a tech fan or just curious, get informed, join the discussion, and stay open to developments. The future of AI concerns us all.
You can read the original statement here: https://superintelligence-statement.org/
