Cate Blanchett has expressed significant concern regarding the implications of artificial intelligence (AI) for humanity. In an interview aired on Sunday with Laura Kuenssberg for the BBC, the Australian actress articulated her reservations about the rapidly advancing technology, particularly in the context of its impact on society.
Blanchett, who is currently in the spotlight for her new film, "Rumours"—a comedic take on an apocalyptic scenario involving world leaders trapped in a forest—suggested that current global events make her film seem almost trivial. She commented, "Our film looks like a sweet little documentary compared to what's going on in the world."
In discussing AI specifically, Blanchett noted that her worries extend beyond her profession as an actress. She remarked, "I'm less concerned about that and more about the impact it will have on the average person," indicating a broader anxiety about how AI technologies might reshape several aspects of daily life and human interaction. She elaborated that the threat posed by AI is "very real," emphasising the capability of technology to replicate human voices and personas, stating, "Forget whether they're an actor or not, if you've recorded yourself for three or four seconds your voice can be replicated."
Furthermore, Blanchett critiqued the advancements in AI as being driven by what she sees as "experimentation for its own sake." While acknowledging that these technological developments may foster creativity, she also raised alarms about their potential to be "incredibly destructive." This duality in AI, portraying it as a tool for both innovation and possible harm, encapsulates the tension felt by many in the entertainment industry and beyond regarding the future of automation.
As business leaders and technologists continue to explore the potential of AI automation, Blanchett's comments highlight a crucial discourse surrounding the ethical considerations and societal impacts of these emerging technologies. As industries evolve with automation, the full extent of AI's influence on human roles and relationships remains a pivotal issue to monitor.
Source: Noah Wire Services