Langevin says more oversight, regulation needed in response to apocalyptic AI warning

Langevin says more oversight, regulation needed in response to apocalyptic AI warning

A claim that there’s a small chance artificial intelligence could "kill us all" is gaining traction on social media. The statement comes from a former AI company researcher.

Reactions have been mixed, with some questioning whether it's fearmongering or a genuine concern.

"I certainly take it seriously, and I don't dismiss that something like that is out of the realm of possibility," said Jim Langevin, the Distinguished Chairman for the Institute for Cybersecurity and Emerging Technologies at Rhode Island College.

Langevin, who is also a former congressman, has been a leading voice in the conversation around artificial intelligence in Rhode Island. He led the state's AI task force, which released new recommendations earlier this year.

"The sooner we act, the better," Langevin said. "And that's why I would call on all AI companies to act much more responsibly."

Langevin said there needs to be more oversight and regulation around AI. He told NBC 10 News that OpenAI's team approached him recently about joining the company's government advisory board.

"I'm considering joining that that board," Langevin said. "It would put me in a good place to advocate for more transparency and more safeguards in place."

NBC 10's Mike Cerullo reports that a claim that there’s a small chance artificial intelligence could "kill us all" is gaining traction on social media. The statement comes from a former AI company researcher.

RIC's program has grown to more than 500 students. Langevin said educational programs like this could play a key role in reducing the overall risks of AI.

"We are hoping to train the next generation of practitioners and users and creators of artificial intelligence," Langevin said. "And we want to make sure that they are trained properly."

Langevin said it's not too late to course correct in order to prevent a catastrophe from occurring, but in the meantime, he believes it's important to take concerns like the ones raised by that former researcher seriously.