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AI pioneers who channeled 'hedonistic' machines win computer science's top prize

Mar 05, 2025 - financialpost.com
Andrew Barto and Richard Sutton, pioneers in reinforcement learning, have been awarded the A.M. Turing Award, often regarded as the Nobel Prize of computer science. Their work, which began in the late 1970s, focused on developing AI systems that adapt their behavior based on positive reinforcement, akin to training animals. This approach has been instrumental in significant AI advancements, such as Google's AI defeating top human players in the game Go and enhancing AI tools like ChatGPT. Despite initial skepticism, their research has become a cornerstone of modern AI, influencing numerous young researchers and attracting substantial investments.

Barto and Sutton's work draws from psychology and neuroscience, particularly how neurons respond to rewards. They have contributed significantly to AI's understanding and development, including co-authoring a key textbook on reinforcement learning. While Sutton is optimistic about AI's future and its potential to surpass human intelligence, Barto remains cautious about unforeseen consequences. Their achievements highlight the ongoing debate about AI's role and impact on society, distinguishing their work from current generative AI technologies.

Key takeaways:

  • Andrew Barto and Richard Sutton, pioneers in reinforcement learning, won the A.M. Turing Award for their contributions to AI.
  • Their research in reinforcement learning has been pivotal in AI advancements, including Google's AI beating human players in Go and optimizing financial trading.
  • Barto and Sutton's work draws from psychology and neuroscience, focusing on machines learning from their own experiences.
  • While Sutton is optimistic about AI's future, Barto warns of potential unexpected consequences, highlighting differing views on AI's risks.
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