From HAL to Today: Why the Dangers of Artificial Intelligence Are No Longer Science Fiction
Do you remember HAL? For those who might not be familiar, HAL (Heuristically Programmed Algorithmic Computer) was the chillingly calm, yet murderous artificial intelligence (AI) from Stanley Kubrick’s 1968 sci-fi masterpiece, “2001: A Space Odyssey.” Based on Arthur C. Clarke’s stories, the film depicted HAL as a machine that deliberately caused the deaths of astronauts in outer space. While HAL’s villainy was purely fictional, the concerns it raised about AI are more relevant than ever, 56 years later.
Today, artificial intelligence has advanced far beyond what anyone in 1968 could have imagined. While no AI system has exhibited homicidal tendencies like HAL, the potential dangers of AI are no longer confined to the realm of science fiction. In fact, some of the world’s most influential voices are sounding the alarm about the risks AI poses to humanity.
Pope Francis Joins the AI Debate
One of the most prominent figures to address the potential dangers of AI is Pope Francis. Speaking at an artificial intelligence session of the G7—a group of seven highly developed liberal democracies, including the United States—the Pope described AI as an “extremely powerful tool” that “generates excitement for the possibilities it offers” but also “gives rise to fear for the consequences it foreshadows.”
The Pope’s remarks reflect a growing global concern about the ethical and societal implications of AI. The G7 session itself was a clear indication that world leaders are beginning to take these issues seriously. But the fear of technology running amok is not a new phenomenon. In fact, it has been a recurring theme in literature and philosophy for over two centuries.
Warnings from Literature: From Frankenstein to Orwell
The idea that science and technology could spiral out of control has long fascinated writers and thinkers. One of the earliest examples is Mary Shelley’s 1818 novel, “Frankenstein, or The Modern Prometheus.” The story follows a scientist who creates a humanoid monster, only to grapple with the moral and practical dilemmas of his creation. Shelley’s tale, which bears little resemblance to the Hollywood adaptations, was a cautionary tale about the unintended consequences of scientific ambition.
Later, in 1896, H.G. Wells explored similar themes in “The Island of Doctor Moreau.” This novel told the story of a mad scientist who created human-animal hybrids, raising questions about the ethical boundaries of scientific experimentation. Fast forward to the 20th century, and the genre of dystopian fiction flourished with works like Aldous Huxley’s “Brave New World” (1932) and George Orwell’s “1984” (1949). These novels painted grim pictures of societies where technology and science were used to control and dehumanize people.
Another notable example is Karel Čapek’s 1936 novel, “War With the Newts.” In this story, humans train newts to behave like humans, only to face disastrous consequences when the newts become as rapacious and bloodthirsty as their creators. These works of fiction serve as stark reminders of the potential for technology to backfire when ethical considerations are ignored.
Real-World Concerns: Theological and Philosophical Perspectives
While these literary works are fictional, the dangers they highlight are very real. In 1947, theologian Romano Guardini delivered a series of lectures that were later compiled into a book titled “The End of the Modern World.” Guardini warned that as humans gained more power over the natural world, they were losing touch with the moral and spiritual principles that should guide their actions. He argued that humanity must “regain its right relation to the truth of things, to the demands of its own deepest self, and finally to God. Otherwise, [humanity] becomes the victim of its own power.”
Decades later, in his 1979 encyclical “Redemptor Hominis” (“The Redeemer of Man”), St. Pope John Paul II echoed similar concerns. He warned that humans were becoming “subject to manipulation” by the very technologies they had created. More recently, Pope Francis has emphasized the risks AI poses to human dignity, calling it “what is most at risk in the implementation and development of these [AI] systems.”
Governments Respond: Europe Takes the Lead
As awareness of AI’s potential dangers grows, governments around the world are beginning to take action. European nations, in particular, have been proactive in implementing regulations to control the development and use of AI. For example, the European Union has proposed the AI Act, which aims to establish a legal framework for AI that prioritizes human rights and ethical considerations.
In contrast, the United States has been slower to address these issues. While some policymakers and organizations have called for stricter regulations, progress has been uneven. This lag in action has raised concerns that the U.S. could fall behind in ensuring that AI is developed responsibly.
Key Takeaways: Why We Should Be Concerned
The rapid advancement of AI technology has brought both incredible opportunities and significant risks. As we navigate this new frontier, it’s crucial to consider the lessons of history and literature, as well as the warnings of philosophers, theologians, and world leaders. Here are some key points to keep in mind:
- AI is a double-edged sword: While it has the potential to revolutionize industries and improve lives, it also poses risks to privacy, security, and human dignity.
- Ethical considerations are essential: As Romano Guardini and others have warned, humanity must not lose sight of moral and spiritual principles in the pursuit of technological progress.
- Regulation is necessary: Governments and organizations must work together to establish guidelines that ensure AI is developed and used responsibly.
- Public awareness is key: The more people understand the potential risks and benefits of AI, the better equipped society will be to make informed decisions about its future.
As Pope Francis aptly put it, AI is an “extremely powerful tool” that must be handled with care. The stakes are high, and the time to act is now. Let’s hope we heed these warnings before it’s too late—before HAL becomes more than just a fictional nightmare.
Originally Written by: Russell Shaw
