In a recent interview, Bill Gates expressed concern about the pace at which artificial intelligence is advancing. The philanthropist and Microsoft founder stated that several danger thresholds have already been crossed that, according to him, should have been controlled earlier. He spoke of biocapabilities, cyber capabilities, psychosocial effects, destruction of the labor market, and even the possible loss of control over these systems.
Gates explained that for years it was expected that as these critical points were approached, ways would be found to limit use to trusted actors or to prevent certain functions. “We have crossed the threshold in terms of biocapabilities, cyber capabilities, psychosocial capabilities, labor market destruction capabilities, and even lack of control,” he noted. He admitted to being “simply astonished” by the little concern and the lack of debate outside the tech industry.
One of the aspects that alarms him the most is the biological potential of current models. “Any model that can create new molecules should be monitored,” he stated. He compared the risk of bioterrorism to that of a natural pandemic and described it as about 50 times more terrifying and likely. This possibility has driven him to raise his voice both publicly, with a new essay, and in private conversations with leaders from government, industry, and civil society.
At the same time, he acknowledged that AI brings concrete benefits. He highlighted advances in agriculture, healthcare, and education, and the potential to reduce bureaucracies. Over time, he said, a stage of abundance will be reached. But before that, there will be turbulence, and a lot of it.
