The Rise of AI Weapons and Killer Robots
Predicting the future with precision is nearly impossible, but when synthesizing expert opinions, certain factors emerge as crucial. Among these are the climate crisis, inequality, conflicts in a multipolar world, and the rise of artificial intelligence (AI) robots. Combining these three themes provides a high probability scenario for the future.
by GyuHyun (MediaBrain Content Editor)
Negative Scenario: AI Wars in a Multipolar World
One possible future is a negative scenario where climate crises and inequality lead to conflicts in a multipolar world, culminating in AI wars or even nuclear wars. As the global climate deteriorates and resources become scarce, tensions between nations may rise. In such a world, AI robots, especially those used in military applications, could exacerbate conflicts and lead to unprecedented destruction.
Positive Scenario: Global Peace Coalition
Conversely, a positive scenario envisions a global peace coalition formed to avoid the extinction of the human species due to multilayered crises. Here, humanity comes together to combat climate change and inequality, utilizing AI technologies for the betterment of society and ensuring global stability.
The Key Role of AI Robots
AI robots, particularly humanoid robots equipped with multimodal large language models (LLM), are at the center of these scenarios. These robots have evolved from simple machines into “new humans.” Unlike the transient buzz around virtual reality (metaverse), which failed to provide lasting satisfaction, robots offer a tangible presence. The combination of AI software with robot hardware heralds the true beginning of the Fourth Industrial Revolution. AI, which once floated like a ghost, has now found a body through robots, raising curiosity about the outcomes of this development.
AI in Military Applications
The integration of AI into military technology is particularly alarming. Major nations, including the U.S. military, are developing various AI-powered unmanned drones, ships, and submarines. These AI weapons can perform a range of missions, from information gathering to precision strikes, and operate autonomously without human intervention. These capabilities distinguish them from traditional weapons.
Killer Robots: Autonomous Lethal Weapons
The term “killer robots” refers to autonomous lethal weapons that can identify and attack targets without human input. This autonomy directly violates Isaac Asimov’s Three Laws of Robotics from “I, Robot,” which were designed to prevent harm to humans. The potential for uncontrolled mass destruction due to self-judgment by AI is a significant concern.
The Need for Ethical Principles and Regulations
As machine learning advances AI technology, its superhuman abilities are becoming more pronounced. AI has demonstrated superiority over humans in complex simulations, including chess, Go, and combat scenarios. Consequently, there is an increasing call for strict ethical principles and regulations to prevent the misuse of AI technology to the detriment of humanity.
The Dual Nature of AI Technology
AI technology is a double-edged sword. It enhances convenience and efficiency in daily life but can lead to catastrophic outcomes when applied in the military. In an era of technological and hegemonic competition, AI is likely to be used negatively in line with each nation’s self-imposed moral framework.
International Cooperation and Regulation
Therefore, strict regulation and international cooperation are necessary for the development and use of AI weapons and killer robots. The European Union is set to implement the world’s first AI regulation law, while South Korea’s AI Basic Act is at risk of being scrapped in the 21st National Assembly. Failure to control technology could lead humanity to an irreversible situation. What we need now is rigorous control over AI technology and a dash of humanity.
To avoid the grim world depicted in “Terminator 2” (1991) under Skynet’s rule, the unchecked development of AI by big tech companies must be halted. If robots continually evolve through self-learning and reasoning, who can guarantee they won’t develop self-awareness? The belief that self-awareness is exclusive to humans might be a misconception.
