“ChatGPT Has Led Us Down a Dangerous Path”: Renowned Scientist Warns About AI Risks

Global AI expert Yoshua Bengio has raised concerns about the potential dangers of artificial intelligence. According to him, the launch of ChatGPT marked the beginning of a potentially hazardous path for humanity. He recently shared his views on AI-driven robots and their risks during a podcast titled “The Diary of a CEO.”

Why Are Scientists Speaking Out About AI Risks?
In the podcast, host Steven Bartlett asked Bengio why a usually calm scientist has suddenly started publicly warning about AI. Bengio explained that ChatGPT’s arrival made him realize that humanity might be on a dangerous trajectory. He emphasized the need to raise awareness about possible risks, while also exploring ways to mitigate them before it’s too late.

What Concerned Bengio About ChatGPT?
Bengio revealed that before ChatGPT, he and his colleagues believed it would take decades for machines to truly understand human language. However, ChatGPT demonstrated that machines are now capable of understanding language at an advanced level. He referred to Alan Turing, who in 1950 warned that machines capable of understanding language could become as intelligent as humans, posing potential risks. Bengio added that while machines are now proficient in language, they are still behind in areas like planning and decision-making.

No Immediate Danger, But Risks Loom in the Future
Bengio clarified that AI robots do not pose a major threat at present. However, over the next few years or decades, the situation could change. He said that since early 2023, he has been concerned that we are creating entities that could either become adversaries to humans or grant immense power to those who control them—potentially destabilizing the world and threatening democracy. This realization motivated him to act and advocate for proactive measures to reduce such risks.

Bengio’s warning serves as a reminder that while AI has brought remarkable benefits, its unchecked development could have profound consequences for society.