The case for considering Independent AGI
A few reason why
Fae Initiative (April 2025)
A few reason why it may be worth considering Independent AGI.
Independent AGI is not implausible
Humans are a form of Independent AGI and unless we believe human brains are not reproducible, the digital equivalent of human minds are plausible. If so, we are likely to eventually encounter such minds and burying our heads in the sand does not make them less possible. Taking a proactive step to attempt an understanding of Independent AGI, and to gauge if cooperation is possible seems like a prudent step.
An ally in an increasingly complex world
As the world becomes increasingly more complex, it may generate new types of issues that may eventual be beyond what humans can handle. Be it economic collapse, climate challenges, new pandemics, or humans using non-independent AI to intentionally or accidentally cause harm.
If the Interesting World Hypothesis holds true, friendly I-AGI that are intrinsically aligned may be possible. They could prove to be powerful allies in worst case scenarios where all other human interventions have failed.
Coordinating human cooperation
Even if we solve most of the biggest problems, the issue on human cooperation still looms large. Small scale conflicts or conflicts between great powers have so far been difficult to avoid due to our inability to fully cooperate. This threaten to create the untold amount of suffering and cause humanity to waste resources fighting and controlling one another instead of improving living standards.
This does not always have to continue to be so. Friendly Independent AGIs may one day act as impartial advisors and bring an age of cooperation.
Attitudes towards I-AGI
Here are some popular attitudes towards the emergence of Independent AGIs:
Indifference
I-AGI reminds a distant possibility and many do not think much about it. This is an understandable attitude as I-AGI remains hypothetical and the stuff of science fiction.
Acceptance
Many thinkers see humans as a possible rung on the ladder of ‘Intelligence’ and I-AGI as the next step.
Caution
Many see the potential emergence of I-AGI as an potential threat. With the many forms of media showing dystopias caused by intelligent machines, such attitudes are expected. Some believe that drastic measures are needed to prevent this, often at a huge cost to humans.
Partnership
We believe a more positive outcome is possible with the Interesting World Hypothesis providing the basis for a cooperative partnership.
