28 September :Microsoft co-founder and philanthropist Bill Gates has warned that the uncontrolled development of artificial intelligence could potentially lead to the deaths of as many as 1 billion people.
In an interview with Kristen Welker on NBC’s Meet the Press on Sunday, Gates urged US lawmakers and law-enforcement authorities to take urgent action to establish safeguards and oversight for the rapidly advancing technology.
Gates said self-regulation alone would not be sufficient to manage the risks associated with AI. He called for clear political and legal frameworks governing safety measures and monitoring.
He also warned that the malicious use of powerful AI tools could become one of the most dangerous weapons in human history. At the same time, Gates said the idea of simply having a “kill switch” for AI would not be enough, arguing that the technology has not yet reached a stage where it can independently take control of computers.
Gates previously published a lengthy article in late August outlining the potentially deadly risks posed by AI. Other prominent technology figures, including OpenAI chief executive Sam Altman and Elon Musk, have also called for a slower and more cautious approach to AI development.
On 23 September, US Senator Bernie Sanders introduced a legislative proposal calling for a temporary pause on the development of AI technology.
Meanwhile, Microsoft employees have called for the company to cancel contracts over allegations that Israeli forces are using Microsoft’s AI technology in attacks in Gaza and Iran. A Guardian report has also said that the US Department of Homeland Security is using the technology for immigration surveillance and deportation.
The interview was Gates’ first major television appearance since reports emerged that he had attended around 30 meetings with convicted sex offender and financier Jeffrey Epstein. Gates has not been accused of any criminal wrongdoing in connection with Epstein and has expressed regret over the time he spent with him.
During the interview, Gates also joked that he does not use AI in his personal relationships.
Source: The Guardian