In the novel “Permutation City” by Greg Egan, the character Peer finds himself bored after achieving immortality within a virtual reality. This raises the question of what humans will do when technology has solved all critical problems. Nick Bostrom, a philosopher at the University of Oxford, explores this idea in his latest book “Deep Utopia”. He considers scenarios where AI can do all economically valuable work at near-zero cost, including tasks like parenting better than humans.
One scenario presented by Mr. Bostrom is a “post-scarcity” Utopia where the need for work is reduced. John Maynard Keynes once predicted that his wealthy descendants would only need to work 15 hours a week, and while this hasn’t fully materialized, working hours have decreased significantly. With technology’s help, humans may engage in experiences beyond their current conception, as Mr. Bostrom suggests.
However, in a post-scarcity world, economic growth might still be limited by physical resources like land. Wealth may be absorbed by housing, and the concept of “positional goods” that enhance status may persist. Even if AIs surpass humans in various fields, competition and the pursuit of positional goods could still drive human behavior in an AI Utopia.
Mr. Bostrom also proposes a “post-instrumental” world where AIs excel even in tasks like child care. This challenges the idea that certain activities, such as parenting, will always remain human-centric. The potential paradox of progress arises from the fear that as technology advances and life becomes easier, humans may lose their sense of purpose and struggle to find fulfillment.
While some may continue seeking challenges and adventures, others may find themselves at a loss for meaningful pursuits. Economists have long believed in humans’ unlimited wants and desires, but in an AI Utopia, the fulfillment of these desires may be put to the test. How humans navigate this new world of endless possibilities and potential pitfalls remains an open question with significant implications for society.
In this thought-provoking exploration of the future, Bostrom challenges readers to consider the consequences of a world where AI dominates aspects of daily life and work. The ultimate question remains: what will humans do when technology has solved all problems and provided endless opportunities for innovation and exploration?
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