Part 5/10:
Gersonner lauds the historical benefits of technological progress, noting the sharp decline in child mortality, the rise of democracies, and the explosive growth of GDP over the past century. He maintains that, in the long term, AI stands to be humanity’s most positive technological development—assuming we navigate the short-term risks wisely.
He also discusses the dual-use nature of technology. While AI can produce immense benefits—enhancing productivity, eliminating waste, and expanding human understanding—it also carries risks of misuse, geopolitical conflict, and potential harm if mismanaged. Historically, disruptive technologies have driven both progress and chaos, and AI is unlikely to be an exception.