Making Sense with Sam Harris

#312 — The Trouble with AI

Mar 7, 2023

Stuart Russell, a UC Berkeley professor and author of 'Human Compatible,' and Gary Marcus, a renowned scientist and author, delve into the complexities of artificial intelligence. They explore the limitations of current AI technologies, especially ChatGPT, and the ethical dilemmas surrounding artificial general intelligence. The duo discusses the risks of misinformation, the need for human values in AI systems, and the urgent call for regulations to protect democracy and public safety amid evolving tech. They reveal how business models can exacerbate misinformation crises.

01:26:59

Creator website

Episode guests

Gary Marcus

Stuart Russell

Highlights

AI Chapters

Episode notes

The Problem with Experts

01:15

Expressive Power in Learning Concepts

01:19

What's the Worst Effect of Chat Style Search Engines?

01:38

Evolution of Tech Business Models

01:51

Intro

3min

Navigating Misinformation in Knowledge Dissemination

8min

Limitations and Risks of AI

22min

Understanding AI Misconceptions

24min

The Dangers of Engagement Algorithms in Social Media

3min

Navigating the Ethics of AI Development

13min

The Urgent Challenge of Misinformation and Media Incentives

2min

Navigating Misinformation in the AI Era

10min

Defensive Reactions to AI Risks Among Experts

2min

Sam Harris speaks with Stuart Russell and Gary Marcus about recent developments in artificial intelligence and the long-term risks of producing artificial general intelligence (AGI). They discuss the limitations of Deep Learning, the surprising power of narrow AI, ChatGPT, a possible misinformation apocalypse, the problem of instantiating human values, the business model of the Internet, the meta-verse, digital provenance, using AI to control AI, the control problem, emergent goals, locking down core values, programming uncertainty about human values into AGI, the prospects of slowing or stopping AI progress, and other topics.

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