The Capital News
New Delhi: May 24: Tesla CEO Elon Musk has shared his views on the future of Artificial Intelligence (AI), foreseeing a scenario where AI will eventually eliminate all traditional jobs. “Probably none of us will have a job,” he stated, indicating that advanced AI technology will render conventional employment redundant.
On the other hand , Microsoft CEO Satya Nadella emphasised his reservations about anthropomorphising AI, asserting that it should be viewed as a tool rather than a human-like entity.
This highlights an ongoing debate in the tech industry regarding the extent to which AI should be humanised. Now, Musk shared his insights on the future of Artificial Intelligence (AI) and its implications for employment. Musk indicated that the shift could have positive aspects despite this seemingly grim forecast. He envisioned a future where jobs would be optional, allowing people to work out of interest rather than necessity. “If you want to do a job that’s like a hobby, you can do a job. But otherwise, AI and the robots will provide any goods and services that you want,” Musk explained. For such a future to be successful, Musk emphasised the need for a “universal high income,” distinguishing it from Universal Basic Income (UBI). He suggested that a more substantial financial safety net than UBI might be necessary to support individuals in a world where AI has made traditional jobs scarce. This would ensure that people have sufficient income to maintain a good quality of life without conventional employment. “There would be no shortage of goods or services,” Musk assured. He pointed out that AI capabilities have advanced rapidly in recent years, outpacing the ability of regulators, companies, and users to manage the technology responsibly. Musk, who has previously expressed concerns about AI, reiterated his fears, describing it as his “biggest fear.” He cited the “Culture Book Series” by Ian Banks as a realistic and utopian vision of a future run by advanced technology. Musk also questioned the emotional fulfillment of people in a future without jobs. “The question will really be one of meaning – if the computer and robots can do everything better than you, does your life have meaning?” he pondered, suggesting that humans might still have a role in giving AI meaning. Additionally, Musk advised parents to limit their children’s social media usage, warning that social media platforms are “being programmed by a dopamine-maximising AI.” This concern aligns with industry experts who continuously raise alarms about the transformative impact of AI on various industries and jobs as the technology proliferates in the market.
