By outdoor-nature-child.com In your journey to becoming a prominent figure in the field of artificial intelligence, how did your early passion for video games influence your career path?
Absolutely. While most teenagers were busy playing video games, I found myself deeply invested in creating them. My journey began when I co-designed the 1994 hit game, Theme Park, which allowed players to build and manage their own amusement parks. This experience introduced me to the tech world and laid the groundwork for my future endeavors.
Growing up in London to a Greek Cypriot father and a Singaporean mother, I pursued a degree in computer science at Cambridge University, where I graduated with honors. I then went on to complete a PhD in cognitive neuroscience. This educational path eventually led me to co-found DeepMind, which Google acquired for £400 million in 2014.
You’ve recently received a knighthood for your contributions to AI. What does this honor mean to you?
Being knighted was a deeply significant moment for me. It represents not just my individual efforts but also highlights the critical role AI plays in society. As the CEO of Google DeepMind, I oversee initiatives that have profound implications for scientific research, such as our groundbreaking work in predicting and designing protein structures. This achievement contributed to us sharing the Nobel Prize in Chemistry, which I’m proud to say I share with my colleagues John Jumper and David Baker.
You’ve often spoken about the importance of gaming. How do you view the relationship between gaming and AI?
I believe that gaming can be a gateway to understanding AI. My fascination with chess computers and how they learn to play ignited my curiosity and guided me into programming. Just like many kids who start with games, I harnessed the power of computers to create and innovate.
Your startup has achieved significant milestones in AI, particularly in games like Go, chess, and Starcraft II. What motivates your commitment to advancing AI technology?
I see tremendous potential in AI to solve complex problems. During the COVID-19 pandemic, I was invited to advise the UK government’s Scientific Advisory Group, highlighting the need for expert insights in this field. As AI continues to grow, it’s crucial to approach the multibillion-dollar boom responsibly, especially with tech giants like Google competing against firms like Meta and OpenAI.
While you express enthusiasm for AI’s potential, you’re also mindful of the risks it entails. Can you elaborate on your views regarding these risks?
Absolutely. While AI holds incredible promise, we must also confront its associated risks. I signed a statement acknowledging the existential threat AI could pose, comparable to pandemics or nuclear warfare. In a pre-summit interview, I emphasized that we must treat AI risks with the same seriousness we apply to climate change. Delays in our coordinated responses to global challenges can lead to severe consequences.
Despite these concerns, you maintain an optimistic outlook on AI’s impact on society. Can you provide an example that illustrates this potential?
My work with DeepMind’s AlphaFold is a prime example of AI’s capacity for good. It offers valuable insights into protein structures based on their chemical sequences, enhancing our understanding in fields such as medicine. I wouldn’t be involved in AI if I only held a pessimistic view of its future; I genuinely believe in its ability to revolutionize various sectors for the better.