Is AI an existential threat to humanity?

While the possibility of AI posing an existential threat to humanity is a topic of ongoing debate, the current consensus leans towards no, AI is not an immediate existential threat. However, there are concerns about potential long-term risks and the need for careful development and regulation of AI technologies. 

Elaboration:

AI's Current Capabilities:

AI is currently limited to specific tasks and doesn't possess the general, adaptable intelligence that could be considered a threat, according to Consensus. 

Focus on Specific, Narrow AI:

The main concern is not about AI becoming a self-aware, malevolent entity, but rather about the potential for AI to be used for harmful purposes or to have unintended consequences, notes the Bulletin of the Atomic Scientists. 

Misuse of AI:

The risk is more about humans misusing AI, such as in autonomous weapons systems, disinformation campaigns, or for manipulating individuals. 

Potential Long-Term Risks:

Some experts do express concerns about the potential for AI to become a genuine threat if it develops into a form of "general AI" or "artificial general intelligence" (AGI) that surpasses human intelligence. 

Need for Regulation and Safety:

There is a growing call for governments and regulatory bodies to develop guidelines and regulations for AI development and deployment to mitigate potential risks and ensure responsible use, according to the U.S. Department of State. 

The Singularity:

The concept of a "singularity," where AI surpasses human intelligence and control, is a point of concern for some experts, but it's a hypothetical future that is not yet widely considered imminent, as discussed in Time Magazine. 

Existential Risk Defined:

An existential risk is defined as a threat that could cause unrecoverable harm to humanity, leading to extinction or a collapse of civilization. 

Focus on Present-Day Risks:

Some argue that the focus on future existential risks distracts from the more immediate and concrete harms that AI can cause, such as bias in algorithms, discrimination, and the erosion of human skills.