morning computer signs of life

The art of David Altmejd.

A team of scientists subjected nine large language models (LLMs) to a number of twisted games, forcing them to evaluate whether they were willing to undergo “pain” for a higher score.

Defining “pain” for an AI is intellectually interesting. There is a speculative Roko’s Basilisk thing one can’t help but attach to it, especially if you’re of the opinion that machine-learning systems have the potential to become sentient. Some people are going to suggest that sticking hot needles in the eyes of proto-Skynet is unwise and somewhat justifies the Terminators. Also, sentience is still a long way from consciousness or even intelligence. Plants are arguably sentient.

Meanwhile, in space, astronauts are swabbing the outside of the ISS for signs of microbial life.

morning computer: some useful things first thing in the day.

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