Google DeepMind CEO Demis Hassabis has warned that artificial general intelligence (AGI) could be just five years away, but its development poses significant risks, including potential cyberattacks on critical infrastructure. Speaking at the Axios AI+ Summit in San Francisco, Hassabis described AGI as a model that exhibits all the cognitive capabilities of humans, including inventive and creative abilities.
Currently, large language models are considered “jagged intelligences” with gaps in reasoning, long-term planning, and continual learning. However, Hassabis believes that AGI could become a reality with continued scaling and one or two more significant breakthroughs. He cautioned that the period leading up to AGI is likely to include tangible risks and “catastrophic outcomes,” such as cyberattacks on energy or water infrastructure.
Hassabis’ concerns echo warnings from other technologists and public figures, who have signed an open letter calling for a global prohibition on AI development until safety can be assured. The letter, published in October, claims that “superintelligent” systems could threaten human freedom or even survival. Signatories include Apple co-founder Steve Wozniak, AI pioneers Geoffrey Hinton and Yoshua Bengio, and Virgin Group founder Richard Branson.
In contrast, some experts, such as Elon Musk, have taken a more optimistic view, predicting that advances in AI and robotics could make work “optional” within 10-20 years. Musk also predicted that currency could become “irrelevant” in an AI-driven economy, but noted that significant technological progress is still required before such a future can emerge.
The development of AGI has sparked intense debate and discussion within the tech industry, with some experts warning of the potential risks and others highlighting the potential benefits. As the field continues to evolve, it is likely that the conversation around AGI will only intensify, with experts and policymakers working to mitigate the risks and ensure that the benefits of this technology are realized.
The warning from Hassabis serves as a reminder of the need for careful consideration and planning as the development of AGI moves forward. With the potential for both significant benefits and risks, it is essential that experts and policymakers work together to ensure that this technology is developed and deployed in a responsible and safe manner.
