The Dangers of Artificial Intelligence
Artificial intelligence brings significant benefits, but also risks that must not be ignored. Among the greatest dangers are job losses caused by the increasing automation of tasks, violations of privacy through the collection and analysis of vast amounts of data, and the manipulation of information through the generation of convincing fake news, images, and videos. There is also a risk of increasing inequality, algorithmic discrimination, the use of AI for surveillance, and the emergence of autonomous weapons. As systems become more powerful, a fundamental question arises: how much control will we still have over the technologies we develop? That is why AI development must be accompanied by clear rules, transparency, safety testing, and human accountability.
Why Pause AI Development?
The current pace of artificial intelligence development raises concerns that can no longer be treated as issues for the future alone. The most advanced systems are developed primarily by a limited number of organizations, and competition for technological advantage can encourage the rapid release of systems that have not been adequately evaluated. Before accelerating development further, effective mechanisms for testing, security, transparency, and accountability must be in place. A pause should not be seen as opposition to technology. It can be an opportunity to establish rules and safeguards that allow artificial intelligence to be developed safely, under control, and responsibly.
What Are Our Values?
What do we want?
To halt the development of frontier AI globally until we know how to build it safely and under democratic control. See our proposal.
Nonviolence
We will never use, encourage, or tolerate violence, including property damage, threats, or jokes about violence. Our movement is strictly peaceful and lawful. A single violation anywhere harms everyone, everywhere.
Humanity First
AI should be developed in a way that benefits humanity, or not at all. This is why we exist.
Intellectual Rigor
We represent the state of knowledge as accurately as possible. We acknowledge uncertainty and do not overstate claims to win arguments. We are open to criticism and to the possibility that we may be wrong about the best way to achieve our goals. Our credibility depends on it.
Honesty
We have no hidden agendas or conflicts of interest, so we are free to say what we believe. We do not sugarcoat our message to make it more palatable.
Default Transparency
We do things and discuss them publicly and openly, unless there is a good reason not to. Our website is open source, our community spaces are accessible, and our reasoning is published. Being approachable lowers the barrier to joining.
Bias for Action
We do not wait for perfection before acting. We encourage initiative and get things done even without significant funding. Perfection is the enemy of good.
Community and Inclusion
A movement is built on relationships. We are volunteer-driven, and anyone can contribute. We create welcoming spaces where people can meet, connect, and feel at home. Everyone has a place here, regardless of their background.
Using AI Is Acceptable
Even though we want to halt advanced AI development, we are still comfortable using existing AI in ways that help us achieve our goals. We do not engage in purity spirals.
Why Is a Pause Necessary?
Artificial intelligence is advancing at an unprecedented pace. The most powerful systems are being built by a small number of companies and countries, and the race for technological supremacy can put pressure to prioritize development over safety.
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