DAVOS, Switzerland. Artificial Intelligence (AI) has emerged as the foremost buzzword among world leaders and corporate luminaries gathered at the World Economic Forum’s prestigious annual meeting in Davos. Last year’s remarkable strides in generative AI have captivated the global elite, who are now exploring ways to harness its potential while addressing the associated risks.
In a notable debut, OpenAI’s CEO, Sam Altman, has become a focal point at Davos, drawing rock star-like attention, closely followed by his supporter, Microsoft CEO Satya Nadella. The geopolitical significance of AI resonates, with world leaders from China to France openly discussing its implications and challenges.
The leadership turbulence within OpenAI, a prominent chatbot maker in the AI landscape, has not gone unnoticed at Davos. Altman, who faced a sudden firing and subsequent reinstatement last year, expressed a commitment to establishing a robust board. He emphasized a potential restructuring of the company’s unique governance, governed by a nonprofit entity.
The term “AGI” or artificial general intelligence, denoting AI surpassing human capabilities, was a focal point of Altman’s discussion on technology and humanity during a panel at Davos. Nadella underscored the importance of good governance and stability in OpenAI’s operating model.
As AI gains geopolitical prominence, leaders from China to Europe are staking their positions on its responsible development. The European Union has introduced comprehensive AI rules ahead of a crucial election year, citing AI-powered misinformation and disinformation as significant risks to global democracy.
Chinese Premier Li Qiang acknowledged AI as a “double-edged sword” and called for human control over machines. China seeks increased communication and cooperation on global AI governance. Meanwhile, European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen sees AI as a substantial opportunity if used responsibly, highlighting the EU’s efforts in adopting AI rules and fostering innovation.
The Davos Promenade and main conference center were adorned with the omnipresent “AI” as consulting firms and tech giants showcased AI advancements. Sessions at the AI House delved into the technical aspects of AI, emphasizing its potential impact on life and work.
Generative AI systems, exemplified by technologies like ChatGPT and Google’s Bard, were celebrated for their ability to rapidly produce creative content. Microsoft’s Nadella expressed optimism about AI driving economic growth, foreseeing its role as a general-purpose technology.
Business leaders at Davos predict AI will automate mundane tasks, enhance productivity, and transform various industries. However, concerns about job displacement were raised, with a PwC survey indicating that 14% of CEOs anticipate staff layoffs due to the rise of generative AI.
The discussions also touched on the sexier aspects of AI, with Meta’s chief AI scientist, Yann LeCun, emphasizing the need for diverse control over AI development. LeCun warned against AI domination by a few Silicon Valley giants, envisioning a more inclusive approach to serve global diversity in languages, cultures, and values.
Carlo Juancho FuntanillaFrontend Developer, WordPress, Shopify
Contributing Editor
AMA ACLC San Pablo
