WASHINGTON, D.C. – In a bold declaration at the U.S.-Saudi Investment Forum yesterday, President of xAI, Elon Musk, discussed the future of artificial intelligence (AI) and its potential to revolutionize the concept of work and wealth. Musk, who also leads the electric vehicle giant Tesla, predicted a future where the need for traditional work could be a matter of choice rather than necessity.
Musk's vision hinges on the rapid progression of AI technology, which he believes could make work feel recreational, much like playing video games or sports. "It'll be like playing sports or a video game or something like that," Musk stated. He drew parallels between the option of growing vegetables in one's backyard and engaging in work out of interest rather than need, highlighting that while more labor-intensive, some still choose to cultivate their own produce.
The tech mogul further speculated on the diminishing relevance of money, suggesting that with the continued improvement of AI and robotics, financial systems as we know them could become obsolete. "My guess is, if you go out long enough, assuming there's a continued improvement in AI and robotics, which seems likely, money will stop being relevant at some point in the future," he told the attendees.
Musk has been a vocal proponent of the benefits AI could bring, including the elimination of poverty and a significant increase in wealth for all. This optimistic outlook on AI's potential to uplift society economically contrasts with warnings he has issued in the past. In 2023, Musk joined other tech leaders in calling for a temporary halt in cutting-edge AI research, citing significant risks to society and humanity.
His remarks at the forum resonate with a wider conversation on the role of AI in the future. First Lady Melania Trump, in a speech at Marine Corps Air Station New River, acknowledged the transformative impact of AI on warfare, noting that it could profoundly change the art of war, particularly the speed of weaponry, decision-making, and attacks.
The debate around AI's benefits and dangers is not new. Tech officials, including Musk, have consistently highlighted both the promises and perils of advanced AI systems. As these systems evolve, the implications for society, the economy, and global security remain subjects of intense discussion among experts and policymakers.
Musk's discourse on AI's potential to make work optional aligns with his previous assertions that AI-generated content will dominate consumption within the next few years. He believes that apps will become obsolete, and AI will become central to functions like news delivery and music creation, as he mentioned in a conversation with podcaster Joe Rogan.
As AI continues to develop, the world watches with a mix of anticipation and caution. The transition to an AI-driven society promises to be one of the most significant shifts in human history, potentially redefining the nature of work, wealth, and warfare.
