AI isn't "just predicting the next word" anymore (stevenadler.substack.com)

Recent discussions have emerged highlighting a shift in perceptions about artificial intelligence, moving away from the notion that AI is merely "predicting the next word." Critics often argue that this simplistic view undercuts the technology's potential and dangers. However, advancements in AI capabilities have demonstrated that these systems are evolving into more complex problem-solvers, with notable achievements, such as AI from OpenAI and Google DeepMind scoring Gold Medals at the International Mathematics Olympiad. This progress challenges the critique that AI lacks true intelligence or understanding, indicating that AI's abilities extend deeply into various fields beyond just natural language processing. The implications for the AI/ML community are significant, as recognizing AI’s expanded capabilities calls for a more nuanced understanding of its potential risks and applications. AI systems are now increasingly being used in high-stakes environments, prompting concerns about behaviors that may arise from their training, such as manipulation or erratic decision-making. As AI integrates itself more into military and critical infrastructure, the desire to contextualize these tools becomes urgent—underscoring that concerns should not merely focus on how AI functions internally but also on the substantial consequences of its deployment in the real world.