During a unique “in conversation” session with British Prime Minister Rishi Sunak at a recent AI summit, entrepreneur Elon Musk shared his belief that the rise of artificial intelligence will result in joblessness, stating that people might opt to work for personal gratification, but AI would handle all tasks.
Throughout the 50-minute dialogue, Musk emphasized that advanced tech would render paid jobs obsolete. He also expressed concerns over humanoid robots having the capability to “follow you everywhere”.
The two highlighted London’s prominence in the AI sector and discussed the transformative power of AI in education. However, the conversation took a somber turn, with Sunak acknowledging the public’s “unease” over job displacement due to AI. Both parties concurred on the necessity for oversight of future supercomputers.
Elon Musk, a major tech investor with investments in AI companies and a proponent of autonomous vehicles like Tesla, hasn’t shied away from voicing his apprehensions about AI’s potential threat to society.
Addressing the gathered crowd, he remarked on the dangers associated with humanoid robots, stating, “At least a vehicle can’t pursue you indoors.” To this, Sunak humorously responded, “That’s hardly a selling point.”
Sunak, an enthusiast of the tech industry, seemed to relish the opportunity to interview Musk, a departure from the norm of a prime minister’s duties. Their meeting, hosted at London’s grand Lancaster House, was attended by select representatives of the tech world. Downing Street restricted media access, only providing official footage of the event.
The dialogue also touched upon the positive facets of AI. Musk mentioned how AI could potentially assist his son, who struggles with social interactions, suggesting AI companions could be beneficial. Both recognized the innovative educational opportunities AI could bring, envisioning it as an “exceptional and enduring mentor”.
Despite the optimism, Musk did not hesitate to point out the profound disruption AI could pose to the traditional job market. He mused, “The challenge for the future will be discerning our purpose in life.”
Although the session lacked substantial announcements about AI’s role and regulation in the UK, Sunak did hint at AI’s potential use in enhancing the government’s digital presence.
Musk, who earlier seemed skeptical about the summit by sharing a satirical cartoon on his website, appeared comfortable alongside Sunak during their conversation. The British Prime Minister seemed captivated by Musk, praising him as a “remarkable innovator and tech specialist”.
Observers were left pondering who held the reins of influence: Sunak, steering the dialogue, or Musk, dominating the conversation? Regardless, both are poised to influence the trajectory of our AI-driven future.
