AI expert discusses meaning and exhaustion from rapid model releases
6 reported2 unconfirmed
In a talk at DeepMind, a speaker discussed how the rapid pace of AI development is creating a sense of exhaustion rather than unemployment. The speaker argued that the moderate view is not mass unemployment but increased total leisure time, though the time horizon remains unclear. The speaker noted that AI has made them busier, as the relative wage gradient for working harder is now extreme. An 18-year-old would feel pressure to work hard to avoid falling behind, while a 64-year-old could choose to step back. The speaker described feeling excitement about new models but also exhaustion as they arrive more frequently, creating a need to test and discuss them. The speaker questioned when the leisure dividend from AI will arrive, noting that no one forces harder work but the substitution effect from higher implicit wages encourages it.
What’s reported
The speaker gave a talk at DeepMind, with audience Q&A cut from the transcript.
The speaker stated the moderate view is not mass unemployment from AGI, but increased total leisure time, though the time horizon is unclear.
The speaker reported being busier because of AI, with a "really quite extreme" relative wage gradient for working harder.
The speaker said an 18-year-old would feel pressure to work hard to avoid falling behind, while a 64-year-old could choose to step back.
The speaker described excitement about new models but exhaustion as they come out more frequently.
The speaker asked when the leisure dividend from AI will arrive, noting a substitution effect from higher implicit wages.
Open questions
The specific time horizon for when increased leisure time from AI might occur.
Whether the speaker's views represent official DeepMind positions or personal opinions.
Key figures
The speaker (not named in the article text)
Sources: marginalrevolution.com
