Artificial Superintelligence (ASI)
Hypothetical level of intelligence that would surpass human cognitive capabilities in virtually all domains, from scientific creativity to general wisdom.
Key Concepts
Recursive Self-Improvement
The ability of an AI to recursively improve its own intelligence.
Intelligence Explosion
A rapid increase in intelligence that could result from recursive self-improvement.
Existential Risk
The risk of an ASI causing human extinction.
Detailed Explanation
Artificial superintelligence (ASI) is a hypothetical form of artificial intelligence that would be much more intelligent than the best human brains in practically every field, including scientific creativity, general wisdom, and social skills.
The development of ASI is a major goal of some artificial intelligence research, but it is also a source of great concern. Some researchers believe that ASI could pose an existential risk to humanity, as it could be difficult to control an AI that is much more intelligent than we are.
There are a number of different approaches to the development of ASI. Some researchers are working on developing methods for creating a "seed AI" that would be able to recursively improve its own intelligence. Others are working on developing methods for creating a "scaffolded AI" that would be built on top of a less intelligent AI. And still others are working on developing methods for creating a "collective superintelligence" that would be composed of a large number of less intelligent AIs.
Real-World Examples & Use Cases
Scientific Discovery
An ASI could be used to solve some of the most challenging problems in science, such as finding a cure for cancer or developing a theory of everything.
Economic Growth
An ASI could be used to create new technologies that would lead to unprecedented economic growth.
Global Problems
An ASI could be used to solve some of the world's most pressing problems, such as climate change and poverty.