The rapid development of Artificial Intelligence (AI) has some scientists wondering if it could be the reason we haven’t found any extraterrestrial civilizations (ETIs). This concept ties into the Fermi Paradox, the contradiction between the high probability of alien life existing and the complete lack of evidence for it.
The “Great Filter” theory proposes a hurdle that intelligent life must overcome to become advanced and interstellar. This hurdle could be anything from natural disasters to self-inflicted destruction. A new study by Michael Garrett suggests AI’s evolution into Artificial Super Intelligence (ASI) could be this very filter.
Garrett argues that ASI development might be a tipping point for civilizations, potentially leading to extinction within 200 years if left unchecked. This timeframe could explain the lack of any detectable signs of past ETIs.
The study highlights the urgency of developing regulations for AI development and pursuing a multi-planetary future to mitigate these existential threats.
Beyond immediate job displacement concerns, the ethical and societal implications of advanced AI loom large. Issues like algorithmic bias, societal manipulation, and the potential for AI to make autonomous decisions raise a multitude of unanswered questions.
Stephen Hawking previously warned of AI surpassing human intelligence and potentially replacing humanity altogether. This scenario aligns with the concept of ASI, a super-intelligent AI surpassing human capabilities.
The rapid rise of AI presents exciting possibilities but also demands careful consideration of its potential pitfalls. By proactively addressing these challenges, we can ensure AI becomes a tool for progress, not a Great Filter for humanity.
