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In an unprecedented move, billionaire tech entrepreneur Elon Musk is set to engage in a live interview with UK Prime Minister Rishi Sunak. This high-profile conversation is scheduled to take place during the global summit on artificial intelligence at Bletchley Park. The summit aims to unite AI experts and world leaders to deliberate on the potential risks and safety measures associated with artificial intelligence. Notably, key figures such as US Vice-President Kamala Harris and European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen are confirmed attendees, along with luminaries from the tech industry.
Two of the esteemed "godfathers of AI" are expected to grace the summit with their presence. Yoshua Bengio, one of the pioneers in AI, has confirmed his attendance, while it is believed that Prof Yann LeCun, Meta's chief AI scientist, will also join the gathering. Mr. LeCun, known for his contrasting views on AI safety, has been a vocal advocate of its benign nature.
Adding an intriguing dimension to this event, Mr. Sunak disclosed, "In conversation with Elon Musk. After the AI Safety Summit. Thursday night on X." The significance here lies in the choice of platform; Musk's X, acquired for $44 billion, has become a $19 billion entity, signifying its growing impact. Elon Musk himself embarked on AI endeavors with the launch of xAI in June, showcasing his unwavering interest in the field.
However, Musk's stance on AI safety and regulation has been multifaceted. While he has advocated for a pause in AI development, he has also founded his own AI venture and reportedly procured significant quantities of specialized AI chips. The dynamic nature of his views may present a challenge for governments seeking a harmonious approach to AI regulation.
As recent AI advancements offer both revolutionary potential and heightened concerns about safety, the discourse on how to address this duality has gained momentum. US President Joe Biden recently signed an executive order mandating AI developers to share safety results with the US government. Yet, Musk might push for more comprehensive measures in the AI domain, building on his long-standing commitment to AI safety.
The potential for mass job displacement and the amplification of disinformation are among the concerns associated with the unchecked growth of AI. In April, Musk expressed his belief in the necessity of establishing a regulatory body to oversee AI's development, aiming to ensure it does not pose a threat to the public.
The conversation between Musk and the UK Prime Minister on Musk's platform underscores the evolving landscape of AI and the complex challenges that lie ahead in navigating this technological frontier. The outcomes of this discourse may significantly influence AI regulation on a global scale.
