AI Expert Warns of Job Losses and Simulation Reality by 2027

A leading expert in artificial intelligence has issued a stark warning that up to 99 percent of jobs could be automated by 2027. Dr. Roman V. Yampolskiy, a Professor of Computer Science and Engineering at the University of Louisville, shared his concerns during an interview on Steven Bartlett‘s podcast, *The Diary of a CEO*. He also raised alarming points about the potential dangers of AI, suggesting that humanity may be heading towards a catastrophic collapse.

Warnings of Global Collapse and Job Displacement

Dr. Yampolskiy, who has previously received funding from entrepreneur Elon Musk for his research on advanced intelligent systems, expressed skepticism about the controllability of AI. He stated that advanced AI could pose existential threats, including the possibility of human extinction if misused. He explained, “I can predict even before we get to super intelligence someone will create a very advanced biological tool to create a novel virus that could devastate populations.”

He elaborated on the potential for technology to be weaponized by individuals or groups with malicious intent, including terrorists and doomsday cults. “Historically, these groups have attempted to harm large numbers of people. If they gain access to technology capable of killing millions, they would likely use it,” he cautioned.

Simulation Theory and its Implications

During the podcast, Dr. Yampolskiy also discussed the concept of simulation theory, suggesting that it is plausible we are living in a simulation created by a technologically advanced civilization. He noted that current advancements in AI and virtual reality make this theory increasingly credible. “If you believe we can create human-level AI and a reality indistinguishable from our own, then we might very well be in a simulation,” he remarked.

He cited philosopher Nick Bostrom‘s ideas, which suggest that if advanced civilizations can create simulations, the number of simulated realities may vastly outnumber actual ones. “The moment this is affordable, I’m going to run billions of simulations of this exact interview,” Dr. Yampolskiy stated, highlighting the potential for widespread simulation.

Dr. Yampolskiy’s predictions about job displacement are rooted in the rapid advancements in AI. He cautioned that not only will traditional jobs be automated, but even roles that were previously thought to be secure, such as coding and prompt engineering, are at risk. He explained, “The hardest thing is designing AI agents for practical applications. In a year or two, that may also be gone.”

Given the trajectory of AI development, he believes that attempting to retrain workers in new skills may prove futile. “Look at the landscape. Two years ago, we advised people to learn to code, but now AI can code better than humans,” he lamented.

Despite the grave warnings, Dr. Yampolskiy suggested a potential silver lining: increased productivity could lead to an abundance of resources. “If we create a lot of free labor, we could provide for everyone’s basic needs,” he said, pondering the societal implications of a future where many individuals might have ample leisure time.

Ultimately, Dr. Yampolskiy emphasized that regardless of whether we are living in a simulation or facing an AI-driven future, human experiences of pain, love, and personal values remain unchanged. “All the things you care about are still the same,” he concluded, urging listeners to focus on the essential aspects of life.

As the discussion around AI continues to evolve, experts like Dr. Yampolskiy will play a critical role in shaping the conversation about its potential benefits and existential risks.