Sam Altman Claims AI Will 'Reshape the Material Conditions of Human Life'

Sam Altman, CEO of OpenAI, believes that artificial intelligence has now entered a phase of development that will profoundly change society. In an editorial published by the Financial Times, the executive argued that the advances made by the sector are already demonstrating the economic value of the technology, its growing role in national security, and the contribution it can make to scientific research.

According to Altman, within one or two years, systems characterized by extraordinary capabilities could be realized, capable of generating significant benefits for society. He also noted that many applications once considered science fiction are now a reality and will continue to increasingly influence the world.

In his speech, the CEO of OpenAI stated that artificial intelligence could change the material conditions of human life with an impact comparable to, or even greater than, that produced by the introduction of electricity. "Artificial intelligence will reshape the material conditions of human life on a scale that no technology has ever reached since the advent of electricity, and perhaps even beyond," he wrote.

To address this new phase, Altman proposed the creation of an international body led by the United States. The idea also stems from recent discussions with political leaders and tech executives during the G7 summit held in France.

The structure envisioned should bring together representatives from governments, independent experts, and other competent figures, with the aim of defining common standards for the development of artificial intelligence. Technologies could then be made available to countries and companies that agree to comply with the established rules.

Altman also believes that such an organization could play a supervisory role over the labs engaged in AI development, helping to mitigate commercial pressures that could favor unsafe competition. According to the executive, international cooperation would be the best way to avoid excessive concentration of power and ensure a broader distribution of the benefits arising from artificial intelligence.