Neil deGrasse Tyson warns super-intelligent AI is a threat to humanity, we must stop it
India Today
American astrophysicist Neil deGrasse Tyson believes that artificial intelligence has a lot of positives for humanity. However, the AI that could perhaps reach superintelligence and surpass humans may be nothing short of lethal for humanity, something he urges must not be developed.
Artificial intelligence is transforming rapidly. Today, AI can do a lot more than it was capable of just a couple of years ago. Companies like OpenAI and xAI have a vision of AI reaching superintelligence – a state where machines can surpass human intelligence – something that we have seen in Hollywood films like The Matrix and Terminator. Just like how these two films depict a scary future, American astrophysicist Neil deGrasse Tyson believes that a superintelligent AI may be doom for humanity.
During the 2026 Isaac Asimov Memorial Debate, Tyson discussed the potential threat of an AI that exceeds the intelligence of all humans. While Neil accepted that AI would be a bigger part of lives by 2030, the idea of AI superintelligence reminded him of the Cold War.
He said, “I foresee, by 2030, if I will, much more AI just folded into our lives. But the AI that transcends all of our intelligence.. I'm old enough to have lived through (0:20) a lot of the Cold War.”
Neil deGrasse Tyson pointed out that a major reason the Cold War ended was the threat of mutually assured destruction, thanks to both sides having nuclear weapons. He explained, “We had an acronym for it, MAD, Mutual Assured Destruction. That's what brought people to the table.”
The American astrophysicist reckoned that similar to how humanity understood that its survival mattered more than politics, we will soon understand that we matter more than AI too. And while AI can still be beneficial for various aspects, AI superintelligence could be a threat to the survival of our species.
Tyson explained, “People will come to the table and say, yeah, keep the rest of the AI going. We got new medicines and new understandings of our physiology and new technologies that help us get smarter and healthier.” He added, “But that branch of AI is lethal.”
Reddit is exploring biometric verification methods such as Face ID and Touch ID to ensure users are real humans, not bots, while pledging to maintain the platform's tradition of anonymity. CEO Steve Huffman said the company is planning to address the rising influence of AI-generated content and protect authentic user engagement.
Delhi is strengthening its push for UPSC success by recognising top achievers and improving support for aspirants. In a first-of-its-kind initiative, the government engaged directly with successful candidates to understand their preparation journey.
WhatsApp is reportedly working on a new privacy feature that will allow messages to automatically disappear shortly after being read. The upcoming feature, called "After reading," is expected to give users more control over their conversations, especially when sharing sensitive information.
RBSE Class 10 Result 2026 is expected to be declared soon, with students eagerly awaiting the official announcement date and time. The Rajasthan Board 10th result will be available online, making it important for students to stay updated on where and how to check their scores quickly.
In a push towards more inclusive school environments, the Central Board of Secondary Education has rolled out fresh directives on menstrual hygiene across its affiliated institutions. The move comes after a landmark ruling by the Supreme Court of India that places menstrual health within the framework of fundamental rights.
Tata Motors has introduced a more affordable dual-motor QWD variant of the Tata Harrier.ev, bringing all-wheel drive capability and strong performance to a wider audience at a lower entry price.
OpenAI is reportedly planning a major hiring push, aiming to nearly double its workforce to around 8,000 employees by the end of 2026 as competition in AI continues to intensify.
The Goa Board has announced the much-awaited Class 12 (HSSC) Result 2026 on its official website. Students can check the direct link, download steps, SMS option, login credentials, exam highlights, and re-evaluation details.
CBSE has launched an AI-based remote proctored exam in 2026 to assess 10,000 school counsellors in phases. The online evaluation will test their skills, ethics, and practical application in school settings.
OpenAI is now aiming to build a fully automated AI researcher that can plan, analyse, and solve complex problems on its own, calling it the company's "North Star" for the next few years.
Bihar Board Class 12 Result 2026 will be declared soon, bringing an end to the long wait for students. Once announced, students will be able to check their BSEB Inter scores not only on the official BSEB websites but also on the India Today Board Results 2026 platform, ensuring quick and convenient access to their scorecards.
BMW Motorrad has launched the BMW M 1000 R in India at Rs 33.5 lakh, bringing superbike-derived performance, aggressive styling, and track-focused electronics to the brand's flagship naked roadster offering.
Rajkummar Rao and Wamiqa Gabbi's 'Bhool Chuk Maaf' will premiere on Prime Video on June 6, just two weeks after its theatrical release. Originally planned for a direct OTT debut, the film hit cinemas on May 23.