There is no question that AI will be part and parcel to future successes at CSU University. The process of designing an AI for the research team’s specific future is exciting as much as it is terrifying. Dr. Cara Williams’ fears are not unlike those of her former Marine husband, Russell Carter.
The following snippet from “Fear the Jump” is an early-morning conversation over coffee, in which Cara and Russ realize that the transitional journey they are about to begin is bigger than either of them.
Will the integration of AI technology unleash incredible productivity, or will the deeper research analysis and correlations of nearly four years of captured dream segments in an archive that has never been dissected…open an unanticipated door to chaos?
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Chapter 4 – Lingering Concerns
When Russ joined her at the table in the breakfast nook, Cara poured him a cup of coffee and kissed him on the top of his head. “I’ve been reading more about AI and feel strongly that we need to establish controls sooner rather than later. I’m meeting with Wayne and Zack this morning to begin defining the scope; perhaps setting limits is a more accurate term for the specific application of AI in our small research world. Can you join us?”
Cara paused in thought before saying, “Do you think I’m overreacting or just being my paranoid self?”
“Definitely not paranoid,” said Russ. I’ve been reading as well, and there are valid concerns we need to consider. Zack and Wayne will be essential in establishing the proper parameters for a reliable leash for our AI. We cannot afford to be under-reacting, and that’s not paranoia, it’s smart, critical thinking about the unclear workings of our future.”
Cara nodded and said, “I’m glad you feel that way because I was afraid I was unnecessarily going off the deep end. The last article I read suggested that some AIs, with the right algorithms, could discern subjective context from objective observations and exposure to life experiences. When the AI uses machine learning as part of its core algorithms, it can self-learn and, over time, self-improve, building context around experiences that enable cognitive development. How much time is required for an evolutionary pathway to develop that may evolve into active consciousness? And then what? The answers to those questions… terrify me.”
“I think the same way, sweetie. I wonder if we are stepping into a future of amazing productivity, and ignoring the lid we lift on the journey is attached to Pandora’s box.
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Book #3 – Fear the Jump – https://amzn.to/44GECEq
Video Trailer for Book #3 – https://bit.ly/4eIgsQr