In a [2001] interview, Stephen Hawking warned that if humans do not genetically re-engineer their intelligence level, computers would take over the earth. According to Hawking, a system must be found that allows the human brain to be directly connected to a computer so that the artificial brain contributes to human intelligence rather than opposing it.
Here are my objections: There will never be a spontaneous opposition or threat engendered by a machine because, a priori, the machine has no motivation. Intelligence not linked to life remains a tool, and tools like all non-living objects are non-competitive. Only in life do we see motivation coming from within as a fruit of consciousness, while even the most sophisticated tool remains a tool. A dangerous computer will be dangerous due to a human mistake, like a burning match in a child’s hand. Only if we create life will we be able to ask ourselves if this creation is dangerous in itself or not. And we’re far away from creating the most basic form of life. We don’t even have a satisfying definition of life, only an intuitive grasp.
Neither animals with inferior intelligence nor machines with superior intelligence will present any danger to humans, the former because they lack qualifications, the latter because they lack motivation.
I have no sympathy for any kind of genetic engineering for the simple reason that we contend with life and don’t even know what life is. So to tackle something you don’t know is like putting your hand into a hole in the ground not knowing if a piece of gold, a scorpion or a snake is inside. You don’t run blindfolded down a road that nobody has ever walked before you.
By genetically manipulating intelligence we’ll impoverish humanity rather than enrich it because it will be impossible to develop or perhaps even to preserve personality. We will start to produce clones on the psychic level.
September-October 2001 Issue # 65