During a recent demonstration, Craig asked GPT-4, an advanced artificial intelligence system, to describe the Smithsonian National Museum of American History in 500 words. After completing the task in mere seconds, Craig asked GPT-4 to perform the same task in 200 words and in different languages, including Arabic and Mandarin. The system completed these tasks with ease and even created an abecedarian verse that showcased its stunning creativity.
The miraculous speed and efficiency demonstrated by GPT-4 left a lasting impression on Craig. He drew inspiration from science fiction author Arthur C. Clarke’s observation that “any sufficiently advanced technology is indistinguishable from magic.” It is this magical quality that characterizes the current moment as a Promethean era, in which new and revolutionary tools, energy sources, and ways of thinking are emerging at an unprecedented pace.
The Promethean eras of the past 600 years include the invention of the printing press, the scientific revolution, the agricultural and industrial revolution, the nuclear power revolution, personal computing and the internet, and now, this new era of technological advancement. This era will fundamentally transform all aspects of our lives, including how we create, compete, collaborate, work, learn, govern, and unfortunately, how we cheat, commit crimes and fight wars.
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