Exploring the Trend of p(doom) in the Tech World

The Rise of p(doom)

Have you ever wondered about the probability of AI destroying humanity? Well, there's a term for it – p(doom). This term is gaining popularity in the tech community as a way to express one's opinion on the likelihood of AI leading to our doom. A high p(doom) indicates a belief that AI is advancing too rapidly and recklessly, while a low p(doom) suggests a more optimistic outlook.

The Language of Tech

The tech industry is no stranger to introducing new words and phrases into our vocabulary. It's how we communicate our ideas and experiences. Just look at the Oxford English Dictionary's word of the year – "rizz." Without slang and new terminology, we wouldn't be able to express ourselves as effectively.

Understanding p(doom)

So, what does p(doom) actually mean? It's a mathematical equation that represents the probability of doom caused by AI. Tech enthusiasts in San Francisco have embraced this concept, using it as an icebreaker at events and discussions. It has become an integral part of AI culture in the city. People casually ask each other for their p(doom) score, treating it as a topic of conversation as common as asking for directions to the bathroom.

According to The New York Times, the p(doom) phenomenon has become so prevalent that it has even sparked debates and discussions among techies. It has created a divide between those who believe in the imminent danger posed by AI and those who see it as a positive force for progress.

Interpreting p(doom) Scores

When it comes to p(doom), the score is crucial. It ranges from 0 to 100, with higher numbers indicating a higher level of concern. Those with a p(doom) score above 50 are often referred to as "doomers," as they believe that AI development has surpassed a point of no return for human safety. On the other hand, individuals with a lower p(doom) score, such as 5, perceive the probability of doom to be minimal.

For instance, renowned OpenAI researcher Paul Christiano expressed his belief in a 10% to 20% chance of AI taking over and causing harm to humanity. While this may seem alarming to some, others see it as an opportunity to enhance productivity and efficiency in various fields.

The Debate Continues

The tension between AI enthusiasts and skeptics is palpable. While the concept of p(doom) has not been the sole cause of conflicts, it has amplified the ongoing debate surrounding AI development. Figures like Elon Musk advocate for caution and believe that we must exercise restraint when it comes to advancing AI technologies.

On a personal note, my p(doom) score is very low – perhaps around 0.05. I have faith in the resilience of humanity and our ability to overcome any challenges that AI may present. After all, we possess a unique creativity and inventiveness that AI will never truly replicate. Just look at the invention of White Claw and its subsequent zero-alcohol version. Such brilliance can only come from the human mind.

In conclusion, p(doom) has become a buzzword in the tech world, representing the probability of AI leading to our doom. While opinions may vary, it is essential to engage in thoughtful discussions and consider the potential implications of AI development. Only through open dialogue can we navigate the complex landscape of AI and ensure a prosperous future for humanity.

Original article: Business Insider

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By: knotopoulos@businessinsider.com (Katie Notopoulos)
Title: Exploring the Trend of p(doom) in the Tech World
Sourced From: www.businessinsider.com/will-ai-destroy-humanity-pdoom-ai-number-doomer-2023-12
Published Date: Thu, 07 Dec 2023 16:02:25 +0000