Bostrom expresses optimism about the future if AI is developed wisely, but also acknowledges the challenges and potential pitfalls. He discusses the economic, scientific, and military drivers for advancing AI, and the need for safety measures. He also comments on the closure of Oxford University’s Future of Humanity Institute, which he founded, due to struggles with the university's bureaucracy, and his plans for the future.
Key takeaways:
- Philosopher Nick Bostrom, known for his work on existential risks to humanity, has released a new book, _Deep Utopia: Life and Meaning in a Solved World_, which explores a future where humanity has successfully developed superintelligent machines and averted disaster.
- Bostrom believes that the potential dangers of AI development are now receiving more attention, but there is a lack of depth and sophistication in thinking about what happens if we avoid these pitfalls.
- He suggests that in a future where AI has solved many problems, we would need to reconsider what human life could be and what has value, as many things we currently deem important would no longer be necessary.
- The Future of Humanity Institute at Oxford University, which Bostrom founded, is closing down due to struggles with the university's bureaucracy. Bostrom plans to spend some time thinking about things without a well-defined agenda.