The Rationalist movement, based in Berkeley, is profiled as a group focused on addressing the risks of artificial intelligence. It is described as influential yet controversial, with ties to the Effective Altruism movement. The New York Times article fails to reference the Zizians, a splinter group from the Rationalists accused of violent actions, despite previous coverage on their dangerous activities. The article provides a balanced view, acknowledging the notable figures within the Rationalist community, and raises questions about their cult-like characteristics.
"When you think about the billions at stake and the radical transformation of lives across the world because of the eccentric vision of this group, how much more cult-y does it have to be for this to be a cult? Not much," says Harvard chaplain.
The Rationalists are a geeky but highly influential group of techno-philosophizers bent on saving the world from the evil potential of artificial intelligence.
The New York Times piece never once mentions the Zizians, the small group that originated among the Rationalists and allegedly started killing people.
The article provides insight into the origins and present state of the Rationalists, reflecting on their influence and the controversies surrounding them.
Collection
[
|
...
]