Reimagining Humanity through AI and Longevity
In late April, amidst a gathering in Berkeley, California focused on longevity, I had an insightful conversation with Johnson. After a conference lunch featuring standard meals, Johnson’s choice of a plastic-free, compostable box of chicken and vegetables showcased his attention to sustainability. Sitting across from me, he maintained a poised demeanor, setting the tone for our discussion.
Concerns about AI and the Future
Johnson, dressed casually in worn trainers and a high-end hoodie, had earlier addressed the audience with a troubling prognosis for humanity. He articulated a pressing concern regarding artificial intelligence, claiming we are approaching an “event horizon.” This critical point, he warned, could lead to superintelligent AI transcending human comprehension and control. His travels to Berkeley aimed to rally those interested in longevity to redirect their focus toward AI’s potential impact on human survival.
The Don’t Die Mission
Central to Johnson’s philosophy is the “Don’t Die” initiative, which emphasizes the necessity for humans to adopt a mindset aimed at prolonging life. He believes that the key to achieving this lies in ensuring AI aligns with the objective of enhancing human existence. Johnson stated, “I am convinced that we are at an existential moment as a species,” emphasizing that his engagement in anti-aging efforts is deeply intertwined with the trajectory of AI development. He predicts that combating aging will require decades, and argues that our survival hinges on aligning AI with human preservation.
Founding a New Movement
In an intriguing discussion about the possibility of establishing a new religion, Johnson explained his viewpoint. He stated that our current phase, driven by advancements in AI, necessitates a reimagined understanding of humanity. Traditional communities or lifestyles may lack the influence needed for significant change. Johnson argues that established religions have historically provided effective frameworks for organizing human efforts.
Insights on Religion Formation
When asked how one might go about founding a new religion, Johnson pondered historical figures who shaped belief systems. He noted that Buddha, Muhammad, and Jesus each underwent profound personal explorations, resulting in distinct frameworks and narratives that galvanized followers. Drawing parallels to modern innovations, he suggested figures like Satoshi Nakamoto, the pseudonymous creator of Bitcoin, have similarly catalyzed new ideologies through pivotal works like the Bitcoin white paper. Johnson remarked, “The question is: What is a modern-day religion, and how does it convince? It’s an open question for me. I don’t know yet.”
Concluding Thoughts
Johnson’s views encapsulate a fascinating intersection of technology, philosophy, and the quest for longevity. As we navigate an era increasingly defined by AI, his call to action aims to align artificial intelligence with the fundamental objective of preserving human life. The exploration of these ideas not only challenges existing paradigms but also invites engagement from diverse audiences to consider the implications of technological advancement on humanity’s future.