A Scientist Says the Singularity Will Happen by 2031

BY TIM NEWCOMB NOV 9, 2023

Maybe even sooner. Are you ready?

“The singularity,” the moment where AI is no longer under human control, is less than a decade away—according to one AI expert.

More resources than ever are being poured into the pursuit of artificial general intelligence and speeding the growth of AI.

Development of AI is also coming from a variety of sectors, pushing the technology forward faster than ever before.

There’s at least one expert who believes that “the singularity”—the moment when artificial intelligence surpasses the control of humans—could be just a few years away. That’s a lot shorter than current predictions regarding the timeline of AI dominance, especially considering that AI dominance is not exactly guaranteed in the first place.

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Ben Goertzel, CEO of SingularityNET—who holds a Ph.D. from Temple University and has worked as a leader of Humanity+ and the Artificial General Intelligence Society—told Decrypt that he believes artificial general intelligence (AGI) is three to eight years away. AGI is the term for AI that can truly perform tasks just as well has humans, and it’s a prerequisite for the singularity soon following.

Whether you believe him or not, there’s no sign of the AI push slowing down any time soon. Large language models from the likes of Meta and OpenAI, along with the AGI focus of Elon Musk’s xAI, are all pushing hard towards growing AI.

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“These systems have greatly increased the enthusiasm of the world for AGI,” Goertzel told Decrypt, “so you’ll have more resources, both money and just human energy—more smart young people want to plunge into work and working on AGI.”

When the concept of AI started first emerged—as early as the 1950s—Goertzel says that its development was driven by the United States military and seen primarily as a potential national defense tool. Recently, however, progress in the field has been propelled by a variety of drivers with a variety of motives. “Now the ‘why’ is making money for companies,” he says, “but also interestingly, for artists or musicians, it gives you cool tools to play with.”

Getting to the singularity, though, will require a significant leap from the current point of AI development. While today’s AI typically focuses on specific tasks, the push towards AGI is intended to give the technology a more human-like understanding of the world and open up its abilities. As AI continues to broaden its understanding, it steadily moves closer to AGI—which some say is just one step away from the singularity.

The technology isn’t there yet, and some experts caution we are truly a lot further from it than we think—if we get there at all. But the quest is underway regardless. Musk, for example, created xAI in the summer of 2023 and just recently launched the chatbot Grok to “assist humanity in its quest for understanding and knowledge,” according to Reuters. Musk also called AI “the most disruptive force in history.”

With many of the most influential tech giants—Google, Meta and Musk—pursuing the advancement of AI, the rise of AGI may be closer than it appears. Only time will tell if we will get there, and if the singularity will follow.

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The CIA and Jackson Pollock: Unraveling the Artistic Conspiracy

In the realm of art history, some stories emerge that are as intriguing as they are controversial. One such tale revolves around the alleged conspiracy between the CIA and the renowned American artist Jackson Pollock. This unusual partnership, if true, raises questions about the intersection of art, espionage, and political intrigue during the Cold War era. In this blog post, we will explore the claims, evidence, and theories surrounding the CIA's connection to the abstract expressionist artist Jackson Pollock.

Before delving into the conspiracy, it's important to understand the artist at the center of the controversy: Jackson Pollock. Pollock was a prominent figure in the abstract expressionist movement, known for his revolutionary drip painting technique. His art challenged traditional boundaries and played a pivotal role in shaping the trajectory of modern art in the mid-20th century.

The Cold War was a period of ideological conflict between the United States and the Soviet Union, characterized by espionage, propaganda, and intense competition on various fronts. This context provides the backdrop for the alleged CIA-Pollock connection.

Some researchers claim that the CIA saw the power of abstract expressionism as a means of promoting American culture during the Cold War. Abstract art, with its ambiguity and lack of direct political messaging, was seen as a way to showcase American freedom and creativity in contrast to the perceived conformity of Soviet art.

In recent years, declassified documents have shed light on the CIA's involvement in promoting abstract expressionism. The CIA's Congress for Cultural Freedom, an organization created to counter communist influence in the arts, funded exhibitions of American abstract artists, including Pollock, in Europe. Some critics argue that these exhibitions served as a form of cultural propaganda.

The alleged CIA-Pollock connection has been met with skepticism by some art historians. They argue that the CIA's interest in abstract expressionism was part of a broader effort to promote American culture, and the connection between Pollock and espionage remains speculative at best.

Regardless of the conspiracy, Jackson Pollock's legacy in the art world remains intact. His influence on modern art and the development of abstract expressionism is undeniable, and his contributions continue to be celebrated worldwide.

The alleged conspiracy between the CIA and Jackson Pollock is a fascinating and controversial topic that blurs the lines between art, politics, and espionage. While some evidence suggests the CIA had an interest in promoting abstract expressionism during the Cold War, the true extent of their connection to Pollock remains a matter of debate. Whether or not there was a covert partnership, Jackson Pollock's impact on the art world remains undeniably profound, and his work continues to captivate and inspire artists and art enthusiasts to this day.

Self Care

Physical Self-Care:

• Exercise: Engage in regular physical activity, such as walking, jogging, yoga, or going to the gym.

• Healthy Eating: Nourish your body with a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and whole foods.

• Hydration: Drink an adequate amount of water to stay hydrated.

• Adequate Sleep: Ensure you get enough restful sleep each night.

Emotional Self-Care:

• Journaling: Write down your thoughts, feelings, and experiences to process and reflect on them.

• Meditation: Practice mindfulness and meditation to reduce stress and increase emotional resilience.

• Therapy or Counseling: Seek professional help if you're dealing with emotional or mental health challenges.

• Artistic Expression: Engage in creative activities like painting, drawing, writing, or playing music.

Mental Self-Care:

• Learning: Pursue personal growth through reading, taking online courses, or acquiring new skills.

• Organization: Maintain a well-organized workspace and schedule to reduce mental clutter and stress.

• Mindfulness: Practice being present in the moment and focusing on the here and now.

• Limit Screen Time: Set boundaries for screen time to prevent mental exhaustion.

Social Self-Care:

• Spend Time with Loved Ones: Connect with friends and family members to nurture your social relationships.

• Set Boundaries: Establish healthy boundaries to protect your emotional well-being.

• Join Communities: Participate in groups, clubs, or organizations that align with your interests and values.

Relaxation and Stress Reduction:

• Taking Baths: Enjoy a soothing bath with calming scents like lavender or chamomile.

• Nature Walks: Spend time in nature to relax and recharge.

• Listening to Music: Listen to music that makes you feel calm and happy.

• Breathing Exercises: Practice deep breathing exercises to reduce stress.

Self-Indulgence:

• Treat Yourself: Occasionally indulge in your favorite treat or activity, whether it's a spa day, a special dessert, or a good book.

• Hobbies: Engage in hobbies you're passionate about, whether it's gardening, gaming, or crafting.

Self-Reflection:

• Quiet Time: Dedicate moments of solitude for self-reflection and self-awareness.

• Goal Setting: Set and revisit personal and professional goals.

• Gratitude Journal: Write down things you're grateful for to shift your focus to positivity.

Rest and Relaxation:

• Napping: Take short power naps when needed for an energy boost.

• Digital Detox: Unplug from screens and devices to give your mind a break.

• Vacation: Plan regular getaways to relax and recharge.

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MK

Unleash Your Creativity: Creating Art on a Budget

Art has the incredible power to nourish the soul, but you don't need a hefty budget to embark on your creative journey. Whether you're a seasoned artist looking for cost-effective options or a beginner eager to explore your artistic side, this guide will help you create art on a budget without compromising your passion or quality.

1. Embrace Minimalism in Your Art Supplies

When it comes to art supplies, less is often more. Invest in a few high-quality essentials rather than a plethora of mediocre materials. Consider these budget-friendly options:

• Sketchbooks: Opt for unbranded sketchbooks or even repurpose old notebooks. They can be great for pencil sketches, ink drawings, and even light watercolor work.

• Pencils: A basic set of graphite pencils can last a long time and offer a range of shades. You don't need the priciest brands to create stunning drawings.

• Watercolors: Look for student-grade watercolor sets. They provide vibrant colors at a fraction of the cost of professional-grade paints.

• Brushes: A few versatile brushes can cover a wide range of techniques. Buy brushes that can be used for both acrylics and watercolors.

• Canvas: Instead of traditional stretched canvases, consider canvas boards or even wooden panels. They are more affordable and can provide a unique surface to work on.

2. DIY Art Supplies

Get creative with your art supplies by making your own. For instance:

• Homemade Paint: Experiment with creating your own paint using common household items like coffee grounds, tea, or natural pigments from crushed flowers and plants.

• Recycled Materials: Old magazines, newspapers, and cardboard can serve as excellent collage materials. Cut and arrange them to create unique mixed-media art.

• Found Objects: Explore your surroundings for interesting textures and shapes. Collect leaves, twigs, and other natural items to use in your artwork.

3. Thrift Stores and Garage Sales

Don't underestimate the treasures you can find in thrift stores and garage sales. Here's what you might discover:

• Art Supplies: People often donate unused or gently used art supplies, including brushes, paints, and even easels.

• Frames: Find affordable frames for your finished pieces. You can often give them a fresh look with a coat of paint or some creative embellishments.

4. Digital Art and Free Software

If you have access to a computer or tablet, explore the world of digital art. There are free or low-cost software options like GIMP, Krita, and Inkscape that offer powerful creative tools. Additionally, you can find plenty of free tutorials and resources online to help you get started.

5. Art Community and Skill Sharing

Engage with your local art community or online forums. Many artists are eager to share tips, techniques, and even swap or donate supplies. Attend local art events, workshops, or join social media groups dedicated to art on a budget.

6. Experiment and Embrace Imperfections

Remember that art is about self-expression, exploration, and learning. Embrace imperfections, and don't be afraid to make mistakes. Sometimes, the most remarkable pieces of art come from unexpected outcomes and experimentation.

Creating art on a budget is not only feasible but also incredibly rewarding. It forces you to think outside the box, nurture your resourcefulness, and appreciate the beauty in simplicity. So, grab your affordable supplies, unleash your creativity, and let your artistic journey begin!

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A Special Mushroom

Hey there, fellow mind-explorer! Today we're gonna talk about the benefits of psychedelic mushrooms, aka shrooms. Now, before we go any further, let's make it clear that we're not encouraging anyone to break the law. In most places, shrooms are illegal, so make sure to do your research and stay safe.

Now, let's get into it. Shrooms are a type of mushroom that contain a psychedelic compound called psilocybin. When you consume shrooms, they can take you on a wild ride through your mind, giving you an experience unlike any other. And while some people may be wary of the effects of shrooms, there are actually a lot of benefits to be had.

One of the most well-known benefits of shrooms is their ability to help with mental health issues. Studies have shown that psilocybin can be effective in treating depression, anxiety, and PTSD. The psychedelic experience can help you gain a new perspective on your life and your problems, giving you a sense of clarity and peace.

Shrooms can also be a powerful tool for creativity. Many artists, writers, and musicians have used psychedelics to unlock new levels of inspiration and imagination. The altered state of consciousness that shrooms induce can help you break out of old patterns and see things in a new light.

And let's not forget the pure joy of a shroom trip. When you're on shrooms, everything can seem more vivid and intense. Colors are brighter, sounds are richer, and the world just seems like a more magical place. It's like being a kid again, where everything is new and exciting.

But like we said before, it's important to be safe and responsible when using shrooms. Make sure you're in a comfortable and familiar environment, and have a sober friend around to keep an eye on you. And always, always, always make sure you know what you're taking and where it came from.

So, there you have it, folks. The benefits of shrooms are many, from their mental health benefits to their ability to inspire creativity and wonder. Just remember to be responsible and safe, and enjoy the ride. Happy tripping!

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