Are you ready for the stormy waters of artificial intelligence?
Recently, OpenAI CEO Sam Altman spoke bluntly at a discussion at the Brookings Institution, arguing that the impact of artificial intelligence (AI) on the economy is grossly underestimated. This statement undoubtedly rekindled the general public's anxiety about the development of AI, and many people couldn't help but wonder: what kind of impact will ChatGPT bring us? Will this "AI wave" leave us homeless?
In March this year, OpenAI launched its super evolved version of GPT-4, which quickly caused a global uproar. A large number of netizens shouted "My job is going to be lost", and even top authorities such as Elon Musk, Turing Award winners and other industry giants have joined forces to issue an initiative to call for a moratorium on the research and development of advanced AI systems, which fully reflects people's inner panic and anxiety about the development of AI.
This fear of AI seems to have faded quickly. Over the past year or so, most people have gradually believed that the impact of GPT-4 is not as exaggerated as rumored, the overall social order is still in order, and pragmatic realism has begun to dominate public opinion.
Altman's latest speech has undoubtedly poured cold water on people, once again arousing the general public's attention to the future impact of AI. A number of recent studies do confirm the far-reaching impact of AI on the economy – one report states that nearly 60% of jobs in developed countries could be threatened by AI; Some analysts also believe that as many as 300 million full-time jobs worldwide may face the baptism of "intelligent transformation".
In other words, the impact of AI on the economy and society is by no means in vain, and practitioners and relevant government departments must be aware of this, pay close attention to the development of the situation, and make timely predictions and response plans, so as to avoid the economic order falling into chaos and employment crises after the fact.
AI promoters are right to warn that AI has a huge impact
As a pioneer in the development of AI, Altman is certainly well aware of the impact of this technology. In his speech, he made no secret of his concerns, highlighting the apparent lack of attention to the impact of AI.
Altman explained that while GPT-4 has not changed the economy dramatically in the short term, there is a false impression that the impact of AI is exaggerated, Altman explained. In fact, AI is quietly changing the world, and its influence cannot be ignored.
The reason why Altman said so bluntly may have another deep meaning: he hopes that people will pay attention to AI while maintaining an open and inclusive mind. After all, there is still a lot of uncertainty about the future of AI, and too much panic or speculation will undoubtedly exacerbate social antagonisms, and instead make people suffer more when they actually arrive.
Many AI promoters, including Altman, are relatively optimistic about the development prospects of this technology. For example, an analysis by McKinsey & Company points out that while AI could lead to 12 million U.S. workers having to change careers, it will also create a large number of new industries and new jobs. The Goldman Sachs report also believes that AI will contribute about 7% to the average annual growth rate of global GDP in the next 10 years, and this unprecedented productivity increase will undoubtedly create a steady stream of dividends for mankind.
Optimism is not the same as blindness. Government departments and companies in developed countries are realizing that they must be well prepared in advance to successfully ride out this AI wave. On the one hand, improve relevant laws and regulations to draw clear boundaries and bottom lines for the development and application of AI technology. On the other hand, we should develop practical re-education training programs to help the unemployed learn new skills and make career changes.
We need to stay rational There are pros and cons to the AI wave
In reality, there is a great deal of disagreement about the future of AI. Some are horrified by this, believing that humans are cultivating "demons" and that letting work machines take jobs is just an appetizer; Others are optimistic, arguing that AI is just a new productivity tool that offers opportunities that far outweigh its potential risks.
As Altman said, the impact of AI is indeed grossly underestimated, but we shouldn't be too pessimistic. Historical experience shows that the emergence of new technologies is inevitably accompanied by the reshaping of the old order and the establishment of a new pattern. While some occupations may be completely replaced by AI, a large number of new jobs and industries will also be created.
The key is to keep an open mind and observe and guide the development of AI in a rational and inclusive manner. From a micro point of view, the development direction of any technology is neutral, and whether the final direction is beneficial to mankind depends on our own guidance.
We should recognize the pros and cons of AI development, actively avoid its potential risks, and vigorously support and guide its healthy development to grasp the new opportunities it brings. Governments and businesses are now aware of this and are preparing for the big wave to come.
Fortunately, the development of the AI industry in mainland China is now at the leading level in the world. I believe that as long as we keep a clear head and make full preparations, we will be able to ride the wind and waves and win the first opportunity in this new round of scientific and technological revolution. The coexistence of opportunities and challenges illustrates the enormous impact of AI, and where it will ultimately go depends entirely on our guidance and use.
In the face of the irreversible tide of AI, each of us must raise our awareness of crisis and establish risk awareness. Remember the wisdom of history – anything new is a double-edged sword, with both opportunities and risks. It is gratifying to note that as pioneers in technological development, Altman and others are sparing no effort to send a warning to the world.