The AI Singularity and Runaway Human Intelligence

Abstract

There is increasing discussion of the possibility of AI being developed to a point where it reaches a “singularity” beyond which it will continue to improve in a runaway fashion without human help. Worst-case scenarios suppose that, in the future, homo sapiens might even be replaced by intelligent machines as the dominant “species” on our planet. This paper argues that the standard argument for the AI singularity is based on an inappropriate comparison of advanced AI to average human intelligence, arguing instead that progress in AI should be measured against the collective intelligence of the global community of human minds brought together and enhanced be smart technologies that include AI. By this argument, AI as a separate entity, is unlikely to surpass “runaway” human (or, perhaps, posthuman) intelligence whose continued advance, fueled by scientific and cultural feedback, shows no sign of abating. An alternative scenario is proposed that human collective intelligence will take an increasingly biohybrid form as we move towards a greater, deeper and more seamless integration with our technology.