A group of prominent tech figures, including AI pioneers and actors, is urging a global pause on developing AI that surpasses human intelligence. The Future of Life Institute, backed by over 800 signatures from notable individuals like Steve Wozniak and Sir Richard Branson, wants to ensure AI safety before it’s created.
The call for a pause comes amid concerns about the lack of oversight in AI development, with many experts fearing the consequences of unchecked superintelligence. A recent survey found that three-quarters of US adults want strong regulations on AI development, highlighting the growing unease about the technology’s future direction.
Meanwhile, another issue is dominating headlines: the Democratic National Committee’s financial struggles, which have sparked concerns about the party’s ability to rebuild after 2024. The DNC has spent over $20 million so far this year, largely to cover debts from Kamala Harris’ campaign.
On a more positive note, corporate America seems to be optimistic about the economy, with consumers increasingly buying higher-priced items like pickup trucks and premium drinks. However, a new poll suggests that nearly two-thirds of Americans believe the US is headed in the wrong direction, fueled by dissatisfaction with President Trump’s policies and performance.
Source: https://www.axios.com/2025/10/22/superintelligence-ai-pause-yoshua-bengio