AI CEOs say they need to slow the pace of development. But will they?
Published
Based on the original story on theguardian.com.
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The script
Panel 1
Alex, a smiling inventor with glasses, enthusiastically presents a new AI device that can predict and prevent natural disasters. The device hums softly, its screen showing a clear forecast of upcoming weather patterns. Sam, the deadpan pragmatist, nods approvingly. Robin, a chaotic catalyst, leans in with a smirk, holding up a hand for quiet. Robin raises an eyebrow, chuckling under his breath.
Narrator: We’re on top of this, Alex. But you know what? We need to slow the pace a bit. We can’t rush into anything that could potentially end life as we know it.
Panel 2
Alex is seen in a lab, nervously fiddling with wires and circuit boards. He looks up at Sam and Robin, who are now seated on a makeshift table, with a mix of worry and humor. Robin rolls his eyes dramatically.
Alex: But Sam, if we slow down, won’t it just give Dario Amodei and Anthropic’s researchers more time to work on their end-of-the-world predictions?
Sam: It’s a good point, Alex. But you know how these AI folks are. They’re already so focused on their ‘halt the world’ theories, they might need a speed bump.
Robin: Yes, and if they ever manage to slow the pace of their AI development, it will be as if a herd of zebras have decided to slow their migration to the watering hole.
Panel 3
The scene shifts to a crowded tech conference, with many faces looking at Sam, Alex, and Robin intently. Sam is giving a speech, while Alex and Robin are sitting in the back, looking concerned. Sam (to the audience) Alex (sighing) Robin (smiling) Sam nods, a hint of a smile playing on his lips.
Sam: Remember, folks. We have to be proactive in preventing AI from becoming a threat. Alex and I are here to ensure we don’t miss out on the next great invention, while Robin keeps us grounded. Let’s all work together.
Alex: I guess we’re just keeping the AI development party from turning into a funeral.
Robin: Exactly, Sam. And if all else fails, we can always have a party afterward.