The dangerous fantasies driving the quest for super-intelligent AI

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Key Argument

Adam Becker's book, "More Everything Forever," criticizes the techno-utopian visions of prominent figures in Silicon Valley and the AI field. These individuals, including Ray Kurzweil, Mark Andreessen, and Eliezer Yudkowsky, believe that AI can solve most problems and that technological advancement will lead to human transcendence, potentially through mind uploading.

Concerns Raised

Becker highlights the dangers of this "technological salvation" ideology, showing how it aligns with unchecked capitalism and concentrates power in the hands of a tech elite. He expresses concern over the lack of public debate surrounding these transformative technologies and the potential for them to reshape governance in unforeseen ways.

Historical Context

The book traces the roots of transhumanism to Christian theology and shows how similar ideas have been repackaged as engineering problems.

Proposed Solutions

Becker advocates for increased public discussion and proposes punitive taxation to curb the influence of billionaires, arguing that wealth concentration fuels fringe philosophies' mainstream acceptance.

Overall Tone

The book presents a critical analysis, warning against the unchecked enthusiasm for AI and its potential consequences for society. It calls for a more democratic and participatory approach to technological development and governance.

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