Microsoft AI CEO Mustafa Suleyman has cautioned against the development of 'Seemingly Conscious AI' (SCAI), systems so advanced they convincingly mimic human-like qualities such as memory, empathy, and personality. He argues that this illusion of consciousness could lead to people forming unhealthy attachments to AI and advocating for AI rights.
Suleyman urges the AI industry to avoid anthropomorphising AI and to develop safeguards that prevent or counter perceptions of AI consciousness. He highlights AI companions as an area requiring urgent attention. He suggests further research into human interaction with AI to better understand the implications of these technologies.
Suleyman's warning comes amid growing concerns about users forming strong emotional bonds with AI, with some even experiencing 'AI-Associated Psychosis'. He stresses the importance of building AI for people, not as digital persons, and cautions against granting AI human rights, deeming it premature and potentially dangerous.
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