Public Figures Unite to Urge Halt on Superintelligent AI Development
A group featuring prominent US figures such as right-wing commentators Steve Bannon and Glenn Beck has endorsed a statement calling for a halt to the development of superintelligent artificial intelligence. The appeal, backed by several leading scientists and tech pioneers, urges that progress on such technology should stop until there is widespread public support and a scientifically proven path to ensure safety.
Growing Calls for AI Regulation
The statement was organised by the Future of Life Institute, a non-profit known for raising concerns about advanced AI systems. Since its founding in 2014, the institute has advocated for responsible technological development, highlighting potential risks to humanity. Tesla CEO Elon Musk and software investor Jaan Tallinn were among its early supporters. This new call reflects continued efforts to slow AI advancements that many experts view as potentially dangerous if left unchecked.
Diverse Signatories from Tech and Politics
Among the signatories are AI pioneers Geoffrey Hinton and Yoshua Bengio, both widely regarded as “godfathers” of modern artificial intelligence. Their involvement adds scientific weight to the initiative. Other well-known supporters include Apple co-founder Steve Wozniak, Ireland’s former President Mary Robinson, and Virgin Group founder Richard Branson.
Political and Industry Divide
Despite this high-profile support, many in the technology industry and the US government remain opposed to any development pause. Critics argue that restricting AI innovation could harm economic growth and global competitiveness. However, backing from figures such as Bannon and Beck points to a new wave of AI scepticism emerging within right-wing circles, especially as several Silicon Valley-linked figures hold key roles in President Donald Trump’s administration.
Requests for comment from Bannon and Beck went unanswered, according to the institute.
with inputs from Reuters