Aleks Svetski, an expert in AI, discusses the real concerns and risks associated with artificial intelligence. He explores the fears and misconceptions surrounding AI, the potential of AI to automate tasks, and the value of human creativity. The podcast also touches upon the Spirit of Satoshi project's goal of creating a functional language model using Bitcoin data and emphasizes the importance of taking action and building solutions.
Language models could shape and control what people perceive as truth, limiting critical thinking and diversity.
Artificial General Intelligence (AGI) is unlikely in the near future, and job displacement can be mitigated through intentional use of free time.
Building open-source models and alternatives is crucial to challenge mainstream narratives and provide different perspectives.
Deep dives
The real threat: controlling language and discourse
The podcast discusses the potential dangers of language models becoming the primary source of information and knowledge. As language models become more prevalent, they have the power to shape and control what people perceive as truth. The fear is that approved language models could lead to a controlled narrative and a narrowing of acceptable discourse. This could result in a lack of diversity and alternative viewpoints, limiting critical thinking and intellectual growth. The podcast suggests that building alternatives, such as open-source models trained on specific data sets, can combat this threat and provide an alternative to mainstream narratives.
Misconceptions about AGI and job displacement
The podcast dispels misconceptions about artificial general intelligence (AGI) and job displacement. It argues that AGI is a nebulous fear that is unlikely to happen in the near future, if at all. Instead, it emphasizes that automation has always been a goal of technology, and it has created more free time for people. The key is how individuals choose to use that free time. The podcast suggests that focusing on intentional and productive activities can mitigate any potential negative effects of job displacement.
The power of open-source models and alternatives
The podcast highlights the importance of open-source models and alternatives to combat the potential dangers of controlled language and discourse. By building alternatives, such as language models trained on specific data sets, it offers a way to challenge the mainstream narrative and provide different perspectives. The podcast mentions the Spirit of Satoshi project, which aims to collect and curate Bitcoin and related data to create an alternative language model. This model could be used for various applications, from Bitcoin onboarding assistance to homeschooling and health education.
The significance of tools and experimentation
The podcast emphasizes the significance of tools and experimentation in addressing challenges and shaping the future. It compares building alternative models to building a tractor before having farms, highlighting that the true potential and applications may not be fully apparent yet. The focus is on creative problem-solving, building alternatives, and actively participating in the solution to address potential threats.
Taking action, paving the way for a different future
The podcast stresses the importance of taking action instead of simply complaining about existing challenges. It encourages individuals to be part of the solution by building and supporting alternatives. The Spirit of Satoshi project is presented as an example of taking initiative and working towards a future that offers more diversity and critical thinking. The podcast concludes by stating that the journey of building alternatives may lead to unexpected outcomes and possibilities.
In this episode my good friend Aleks Svetski joins me again, this time to discuss how most AI fears are a red herring. There are real concerns and risks with artificial intelligence, but most people are looking the wrong way and will never see it coming. Fortunately, there is also a solution. Visit spiritofsatoshi.ai to be part of the solution.