The Gist Andy Mills: "Acceleration Is Salvation" — and Why AI Might Be the Last Invention.
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Jan 6, 2026 
Andy Mills, creator of The Last Invention, dives deep into the concept of an 'intelligence explosion' and the unsettling implications of artificial general intelligence (AGI). He highlights how modern AI operates as a black box, often producing unexpected outcomes, such as AlphaGo's mysterious move 37. The conversation touches on existential risks from AGI, the 'worthy successor' idea, and the compelling notion that accelerating AI development might be the safest route forward. It's a thought-provoking exploration of our technological future!
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Intelligence Explosion Concept
- I.J. Good predicted an "intelligence explosion" where an ultra-intelligent machine designs ever-smarter machines.
- That cascade could make further invention unnecessary and make the first AGI the "last invention."
AGI Is A Hinge Moment
- 'AGI' means artificial general intelligence: systems as capable at learning as very smart humans.
- Hitting AGI is seen as a hinge moment comparable to fire or electricity by many researchers.
AI's Black Box Problem
- Modern AI systems are black boxes with internal workings researchers do not fully understand.
- That opacity raises novel risks because capabilities can surprise even their designers.
