AI Pioneer Geoffrey Hinton Warns of Existential Risks and Recommends Plumbing

In recent years, few individuals have shaped the course of artificial intelligence (AI) as profoundly as Geoffrey Hinton, often referred to as the “Godfather of AI.” The 77-year-old cognitive psychologist played a pivotal role in the development of machine learning and deep neural networks, which are the backbone of today’s AI technologies.

Despite his pioneering contributions, Hinton has emerged as one of the leading voices warning of the risks AI poses to humanity. This cautionary stance comes amid a rapidly advancing AI landscape, which Hinton believes could lead to catastrophic consequences if left unchecked.

Hinton’s concerns about AI extend beyond theoretical risks; he views its development as a potential existential threat to mankind. In an interview with Steven Bartlett on “The Diary of a CEO” podcast, Hinton emphasized the urgency of addressing these dangers.

“We should recognize that this stuff is an existential threat and we have to face the possibility that unless we do something soon we’re near the end,” Hinton said.

His words echo a growing unease among experts about AI’s ability to surpass human intelligence and outpace regulatory efforts. Hinton’s warnings have garnered attention across the tech industry, particularly after his resignation from Google in 2023.

The departure marked a shift in Hinton’s priorities, as he took a more active role in raising awareness about the unanticipated risks posed by AI. The decision to leave Google, a company at the forefront of AI development, signaled his deepening concerns about the technology’s future trajectory.

As AI continues to disrupt industries worldwide, one pressing question arises: which jobs will remain immune to automation? Hinton, while acknowledging the rapid progress AI has made, offers a surprising career recommendation for those seeking job security. He suggests that plumbing might be one of the few occupations that AI cannot easily replace.

“It’s going to be a long time before [AI is] as good at physical manipulation as us, so a good bet would be to be a plumber,” Hinton advised during his interview.

The idea that a traditional, hands-on profession like plumbing could withstand the rise of AI seems counterintuitive in an era of increasing automation. While plumbing may seem like an unusual suggestion, Hinton’s rationale is based on the physical demands of the job. Unlike fields such as law or accounting, which rely heavily on data processing and can be automated by AI systems, plumbing involves complex physical tasks and problem-solving that AI has yet to master. Hinton’s recommendation highlights the growing divide between jobs requiring human dexterity and those susceptible to automation.

Hinton’s caution extends to several professions that are increasingly vulnerable to AI automation. When discussing the fate of roles like legal assistants and paralegals, Hinton predicted that these positions would soon become obsolete.

“Someone like a legal assistant, a paralegal – they’re not going to be needed for very long,” he said.

With AI’s ability to process and analyze vast amounts of legal data in seconds, the tasks traditionally handled by these professionals are increasingly being taken over by machines. Similarly, in the field of accounting, Hinton sees a future where AI systems could automate routine tasks such as tax preparation and financial reporting.

These tasks, once the domain of human accountants, are being streamlined by AI-driven software capable of performing them with greater speed and accuracy. As these technologies evolve, Hinton and other experts predict that many of these roles will vanish, replaced by increasingly sophisticated AI tools.

Hinton’s concerns about AI are not unique. Elon Musk, the CEO of Tesla and SpaceX, has also expressed anxiety over the implications of AI on the future of human labor. In a recent conversation with CNBC, Musk was asked about his advice for the next generation, especially in light of AI’s growing influence on the job market.

After a brief pause, Musk replied, “I would just say to sort of follow their heart in terms of what they find interesting to do, or fulfilling to do.” Musk’s response reflects the uncertainty many feel about AI’s potential to reshape the workforce.

Musk’s perspective, however, is tempered by his own involvement in AI and technological innovation. Despite his concerns, he urged individuals to focus on work that they find meaningful, emphasizing personal fulfillment and societal contribution over the fear of automation.

Musk’s words underscore a common thread in the conversation about AI: while the technology may transform industries, human creativity and purpose remain vital in the evolving landscape.