AI could turn into a formidable weapon - what humanity should fear

An article based on material from The Economist examines the risks of rapid AI development, including loss of control over systems capable of self-improvement. It discusses the dilemma for the US and China: tightening regulation for safety versus risking losing technological leadership. Particular emphasis is placed on the danger of military AI use, where an error by an autonomous system could trigger escalation.

An article based on material from The Economist examines the risks of rapid artificial intelligence development. It notes that AI safety issues have transformed from a narrow technological topic into an aspect of global rivalry between the US and China. Experts warn that AI could become harder to control if its capabilities develop faster than oversight mechanisms. Concerns include disinformation, job displacement, and the emergence of systems capable of self-improvement. Some developers call for a temporary slowdown in the race with additional testing and independent audits. For the US, slowing down carries geopolitical risks: while one country reduces its pace, another may continue development. Particular concerns arise from military AI use—an error by an autonomous system could be mistaken for a deliberate attack and trigger escalation. Experts advocate for maintaining human control and clear rules for AI use in the military sphere. China is narrowing the gap with American developers, complicating the task of slowing development without creating conditions for the other side's technological advantage.