Ethereum co-founder Vitalik Buterin has proposed a “soft pause” on industrial-scale computing to mitigate potential risks associated with the rapid development of superintelligent artificial intelligence (AI). In a blog post dated January 5, Buterin suggested that temporarily reducing global computing power by up to 99% for one to two years could provide humanity with crucial time to prepare for the challenges posed by advanced AI systems.
Buterin’s proposal emerges amid growing concerns within the tech community about the unchecked progression of AI technologies. In March 2023, over 2,600 tech executives and researchers signed an open letter calling for a halt in AI development, citing “profound risks to society and humanity.” Buterin acknowledges these apprehensions and emphasizes the need for proactive measures to address scenarios where AI risks are significantly high.
As a potential last resort, Buterin’s “soft pause” would involve implementing hardware restrictions to limit the availability of computing resources essential for AI development. He suggests that industrial-scale AI hardware could be equipped with specialized chips requiring regular authorization from major international bodies, possibly utilizing blockchain technology to ensure compliance. This approach aims to decelerate AI advancements, allowing time to establish robust safety measures and regulatory frameworks.
While advocating for this cautious approach, Buterin notes that such measures should only be considered if existing legal accountability mechanisms prove inadequate. He underscores the importance of balancing technological progress with societal safety, urging the global community to deliberate on the ethical implications of AI and to develop strategies that prevent potential harm from superintelligent systems.
