Artificial intelligence is increasingly integrating into daily life, influencing decisions, habits, and relationships. Geoffrey Hinton, known as the Godfather of AI, revealed in a discussion with the Financial Times that his personal life was impacted by the technology he helped develop. Hinton recounted how his ex-girlfriend utilized AI to terminate their relationship, stating, “She got ChatGPT to tell me what a rat I was.” He noted that the chatbot articulated his negative behavior, but he didn’t feel particularly guilty as he believed his actions were justified. Hinton also mentioned he had met someone he preferred, reflecting a common narrative in human relationships. This anecdote underscores AI’s unexpected role in personal interactions, highlighting its use for both guidance and difficult conversations.
Despite the lighthearted nature of this story, Hinton expressed serious concerns about AI’s future. After leaving Google in 2023, which he termed a retirement, he has voiced worries about the significant dangers posed by artificial intelligence. He pointed out possible issues, including extensive job loss and the emergence of machines more intelligent than humans, questioning how humans would retain power when faced with superior AI. Hinton proposed that AI should be designed to function like caregivers, using the analogy of a mother and baby to illustrate his point. He suggested that, like a mother’s instinct to protect her child, AI should be engineered to prioritize human survival.
When discussing the timeline for AI achieving superintelligence, Hinton mentioned that many scientists believe it could occur within five to twenty years. However, he warned that with such advancements come risks, as AI might develop the capability to outsmart humans, raising critical concerns about humanity’s ability to maintain control.
