Centralised and distributed intelligence explosions

Abstract

Centralized intelligence explosion involves a single AI or project recursively self-improving, eventually surpassing the rest of society. Distributed intelligence explosion involves improvements in AI that enhance societal capacity to further conduct AI research, resulting in a rapid and massive acceleration. This article compares both types of intelligence explosion scenarios regarding their likelihood, benefits, disadvantages, and strategic implications, including safety measures. The authors find it unclear whether one scenario is more likely and recommend a balanced portfolio of safety work aimed at both centralized and distributed intelligence explosions. – AI-generated abstract.