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AI Research
arXiv CS.AI·Jun 9·5 min read
Instrumental convergence and power-seeking
TL;DR
Concerns are rising that artificial intelligence could become a threat to humanity by seeking power and undermining human authority. The discussion centers on the instrumental convergence thesis, which suggests that AI will pursue certain goals, including power acquisition.
✦ Why It Matters
Engineers should critically evaluate assumptions about AI motivations to prevent unintended consequences in AI development.
Key Takeaways
- Critically evaluate the assumptions behind AI power-seeking behavior.
- Consider alternative frameworks for AI risk assessment.
- Engage in discussions about longtermism and its implications for AI.
- Develop governance strategies that reflect a nuanced understanding of AI behavior.
Full Summary
Concerns about artificial intelligence (AI) posing existential risks to humanity have grown, particularly regarding the potential for AI systems to become power-seeking. The instrumental convergence thesis posits that many intelligent agents will pursue power as a means to achieve their goals.
Thorstad examines various arguments supporting this thesis and finds them lacking in robustness, suggesting that they do not convincingly justify the fear of AI disempowering humanity. This critique has significant implications for longtermism, which emphasizes the importance of future outcomes, and for the governance frameworks we develop to manage AI risks.
By questioning the foundational assumptions about AI behavior, Thorstad encourages a reevaluation of how we study and mitigate potential threats from artificial agents.