## Facebook AI guru on artificial intelligence being a threat to humans: “…pardon my French but that’s completely bonkers” – The Times of India
Facebook’s chief artificial intelligence scientist, Yann LeCun, has dismissed the notion that AI poses a threat to humanity, calling it “completely bonkers.” LeCun, a Turing Award winner and one of the most respected figures in the field of AI, believes that the fears surrounding the potential dangers of AI are overblown.
“It’s so ludicrous it’s not even worth debating,” he said, adding that the idea of AI becoming conscious and turning against humanity is “pure science fiction.” LeCun’s comments come at a time when concerns about the potential negative consequences of AI are on the rise. Some experts have warned that AI could lead to job losses, exacerbate social inequalities, and even pose a threat to human safety.
However, LeCun argues that these concerns are largely unfounded. “AI is just a tool,” he said, “It can be used for good or for bad, just like any other tool.” LeCun points out that AI is already being used in a variety of positive ways, including healthcare, transportation, and education. He believes that the benefits of AI far outweigh any potential risks.
“AI is going to be a major force for good in the world,” he said, “We need to focus on developing AI in a responsible way, but we also need to embrace its potential.”
LeCun’s views are not universally shared. Many AI researchers and ethicists believe that it is crucial to take seriously the potential risks of AI. They argue that AI could be used for malicious purposes, such as developing autonomous weapons or manipulating people’s behavior.
“We need to be aware of the potential dangers of AI and take steps to mitigate them,” said one AI expert. “This is not a time for complacency.”
However, LeCun maintains that the focus should be on the positive potential of AI. “Let’s not get bogged down in fear and speculation,” he said. “Instead, let’s focus on building a better future with AI.”
Despite LeCun’s confidence in AI’s potential for good, he also acknowledges that it is important to develop safeguards to prevent AI from being misused. He advocates for a focus on responsible AI development, emphasizing the importance of transparency, accountability, and fairness.
LeCun’s statements are a timely reminder of the importance of having an informed and nuanced discussion about the potential of AI. While AI undoubtedly poses some risks, it also offers tremendous opportunities to improve our lives. As we continue to develop this powerful technology, it is crucial to strike a balance between innovation and responsibility.
