How AI Could Lead to the End of Democracy | Tom Davidson
AI Summary
In this episode, Rob Wiblin speaks with Tom Davidson from the Forethought Centre for AI Strategy about the potential risks associated with the rise of AI, particularly focusing on how AI could enable small groups to seize power. They explore historical precedents for military coups, the threat of autocratisation, and the implications of advanced AI technologies potentially being controlled by a few individuals or organizations. Davidson emphasizes that as AI becomes more capable, it may lead to a concentration of power in ways that undermine democracy and empower authoritarianism. They discuss three main scenarios: military coups facilitated by AI systems, self-built hard power through private industrial capabilities, and autocratisation where elected leaders manipulate systems for their gain. Throughout, they stress the importance of transparency, internal safeguards, and broad access to AI capabilities to mitigate these risks. Davidson argues that checks and balances are essential to ensure that significant advancements in AI do not lead to power grabs that threaten democratic principles.