X-Message-Number: 29756
From: "Mark Plus" <>
Subject: Singularity fatigue
Date: Mon, 20 Aug 2007 18:47:38 -0700

The idea of a technological singularity based on a runaway AI falls WAY down 
the list of things I'd worry about. The AI field started during the time of 
Harry S Truman's presidency, yet after nearly 60 years it has bogged down 
with no obvious path forward. AI theorist Marvin Minsky, who turns 80 this 
month, must wonder at times what he has spent his life doing.

Contrast AI with the modern era of molecular biology, which began around the 
same time (say, with the publication of Watson and Crick's paper about the 
structure of DNA). The molecular biologists near Minsky's age, like James 
Watson, have something substantial to show for their careers.

"There was a time before reason and science when my ancestors believed in 
all manner of nonsense." (Narim on "Stargate SG-1")

Mark Plus

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