Op-ed: 'Extinction risks' of AI deflect attention from real concerns with technology

Alarmists' calls about the "extinction risk" of runaway artificial intelligence systems are destroying the public's ability to have nuanced conversations about the development of the technology, Bloomberg technology columnist Parmy Olson writes. Olson said "the specter of an all-powerful AI system that will eventually become so inscrutable we can’t hope to understand it" only benefits leading developers so competition is stifled while more companies are seeking AI solutions. She said hyperbolic concerns detract attention from clear and present issues with current AI development.