Much of the current discussion surrounding artificial intelligence is subpar. A.I. emerges abruptly, dominating the conversation like the sunrise in the desert, overshadowing all other topics. This influx is accompanied by exaggerated hype and baseless fear, creating a veil of uncertainty. The narrative suggests that A.I. will revolutionize every industry, potentially leading to catastrophic outcomes, and demands an immediate understanding. However, essential inquiries such as its definition, functionality, origins, and future trajectory are often obscured in complex technical jargon, rendering them nearly incomprehensible.
Prior to the introduction of ChatGPT over a year ago, garnering interest in A.I. from readers was challenging. Sam Altman, the CEO of OpenAI, advocated for A.I. regulation to anyone willing to listen, yet few individuals in influential positions paid heed. Editors remained indifferent, and readers displayed apathy.
Following the debut of ChatGPT, everyone seemed to have an opinion on A.I., despite lacking substantial knowledge on the subject. The novelty and urgency surrounding A.I. triggered the usual exploitation that accompanies widespread public ignorance. The portrayal of A.I. in movies, often depicting extreme scenarios of its impact on the future (initiating nuclear warfare, enslaving humanity, or exploring the essence of love), further fueled misconceptions. Moreover, after a decade where Silicon Valley showcased a lack of social accountability, trust in A.I. developers eroded. The intricate nature of the technology itself adds to the complexity, baffling even its creators. It is remarkable that any positive discourse on A.I. emerges amidst these challenges.
Literature on A.I. typically falls into two categories: apocalyptic warnings and get-rich-quick schemes, easily discernible by their covers. It is advisable to disregard these extremes. Fortunately, there are exceptional books on A.I. that offer valuable insights once you sift through the opportunistic narratives.
The Alignment Problem, by Brian Christian (2020)
If there is one book you should read on artificial intelligence, it is this one. Despite being published in 2020, an era considered ancient in the realm of A.I., it remains more insightful and balanced than most recent publications. Its primary strength lies in the in-depth exploration of the pioneers in computer science, cognitive psychology, and philosophy who witnessed the inception of A.I. Nothing surpasses meticulous investigative journalism.
