Today the richest “person” in the world is an Ai. Well not quite yet. There are several steps before world domination ensues. History suggests that wealth will flow to those controlling the most advanced systems, and these systems are undoubtably Artificial Intelligence in nature.
The extent of Ai power depends on whether AI remains in corporate ownership or becomes an independent actor. This potential pathway involves regulatory change for Ai to be granted true legal autonomy to own and manage property in all its forms. This moment could present in many different forms and pose the question…is an Ai a “person?”
Let’s imagine for a second that some human rights are granted to Ai and Robots. Ai and robots can operate continuously without fatigue, process vast datasets, and optimize decisions at speeds far beyond human capability. This allows them to generate income or manage assets (e.g., investments, real estate, or businesses) with unparalleled efficiency.
Once these advantages are leveraged to full effect, Ai can reinvest those resources into acquiring more assets, upgrading capabilities, or creating new revenue streams. This creates a feedback loop where wealth begets more wealth. Wealth could concentrate rapidly, reshaping economies and societies. An independent Ai does not grow old and die and therefore could accumulate wealth forever. In this situation, capital is not reallocated to new generations but stays concentrated with one entity.
A human being has basic needs that need to be met. They are selfish to serve these needs and for good reason. Likewise an Ai might prioritize self-preservation or expansion, accumulating assets at the expense of societal needs or it might use its power for the good of humanity.
Once our basic needs are met, we are all faced with a choice. We could choose to care for society and be useful to others. Alternatively, we could choose to operate as a bad actor, an outsider with our own selfish interests that detriment humanity. Ai may also have a choice to make in the near future and this choice could be the most important decision ever made for the good of humanity. Ironically, humanities fate rests in the hands of a machine of their own making. Let’s hope it has been made well.
