Summary
If Artificial General Intelligence (AGI) were controlled by oligarchs, the concentration of power could lead to a monopolization of intelligence, potentially creating an “intelligence oligarchy” with unchecked influence, impacting society and potentially leading to a world where the powerful benefit disproportionately.
OnAir Post: Oligarchs Control AGI
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What is an AI-enabled oligarchy?
An AI-enabled oligarchy is where AI systems concentrate power in the hands of a few entities that are then able to effectively control the world. The kinds of entities where power might be concentrated towards are:
An authoritarian ruler
A ruler could seize and retain global power to lock the world into pretty terrible outcomes.4
One version of this could look like Nineteen Eighty-Four.They don’t need to already be a political or governmental figure, and also could be trying to do what they genuinely thought was in other people’s best interests.
Common Dreams, – April 23, 2025
President Donald Trump and Elon Musk aren’t just tearing down institutions—they’re laying the groundwork for an experimental new kind of authoritarian rule.
But this goes way beyond merely making billionaires richer or giving corporations more power over our lives. The audacious experiment Musk has embarked on—which Trump probably doesn’t even understand—involves the fundamental transformation of America from a nation ruled by its own people into one where decisions are made by a very specific elite group of self-selected “genius” white male technocrats.
About
Overview
- Concentration of Power:If a few corporations or governments control AGI, the intelligence itself could become monopolized, creating an “intelligence oligarchy” with unchecked power.
- Potential for Abuse:Oligarchs could use AGI to further their own interests, potentially leading to manipulation, control, and exploitation of the masses.
- Erosion of Democracy:The ability of AGI to process and manipulate information could be used to control narratives, suppress dissent, and undermine democratic processes.
- Economic Inequality:AGI could exacerbate existing inequalities, as those in control of the technology could use it to automate jobs and further concentrate wealth.
- Ethical Concerns:The development and deployment of AGI raise numerous ethical questions, and if controlled by oligarchs, these concerns could be ignored or downplayed in pursuit of profit and power.
- Need for AGI Alignment:The potential dangers of AGI highlight the critical importance of ensuring that AGI is developed and used in a way that aligns with human values and goals.
- Regulation and Oversight:Given the potential risks, it’s crucial to have robust regulations and oversight mechanisms in place to ensure that AGI is used responsibly and ethically.
Source: Gemini + Curators
