OpenAI CEO Sam Altman Proposes ‘Universal Basic Compute’ as a Novel Approach to Financial Assistance
In a bold move to address financial hardship, OpenAI’s CEO, Sam Altman, has unveiled a groundbreaking concept dubbed ‘universal basic compute.’ Altman revealed this innovative idea during a recent episode of the ‘All-In’ podcast, outlining a plan to provide individuals with access to a portion of the computing power generated by GPT-7, an advanced artificial intelligence model developed by OpenAI.
Under Altman’s vision, individuals would be empowered to leverage this computational resource for various purposes, ranging from personal use to resale or even contribution to research endeavors such as cancer research. The underlying premise behind ‘universal basic compute’ lies in the recognition of the increasing significance of AI in society, positing that ownership of computational capabilities may hold greater value than traditional currency in the future.
Altman’s advocacy for ‘universal basic compute’ stems from his longstanding support for universal basic income (UBI) as a means of providing a safety net for individuals at risk of displacement due to advancements in AI technology. Notably, Altman conducted his own UBI experiment in 2016, disbursing cash payments ranging from $50 to $1,000 per month to over 3,000 participants over a three-year period.
While Altman’s proposal introduces an intriguing alternative to traditional income support models, it is not without its challenges. Similar initiatives, such as guaranteed basic income programs implemented in some US cities and states, have encountered resistance from conservative factions who argue that such measures could disincentivize work. For instance, a recent ruling by the Supreme Court of Texas halted a program in the Houston area that aimed to provide $500 monthly stipends to low-income individuals.
Despite the lack of detailed mechanics surrounding ‘universal basic compute,’ Altman’s concept is poised to ignite discourse across the political spectrum. As society grapples with the implications of technological advancement on economic stability, Altman’s innovative proposal may offer a fresh perspective on addressing financial inequality and ensuring equitable access to opportunities in the digital age.
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