AI Expert Warns of Job Losses and Simulation Reality by 2027

Dr. Roman V. Yampolskiy, a prominent computer scientist, has issued a stark warning regarding the future of artificial intelligence (AI) and its potential impact on employment and society. During an appearance on Steven Bartlett’s podcast, *The Diary of a CEO*, Yampolskiy asserted that AI could replace up to 99 percent of jobs by 2027 and suggested that humanity might be living in a computer simulation.

Yampolskiy, a Professor of Computer Science and Engineering at the University of Louisville, conveyed his concerns about the rapid advancement of AI technologies and their implications for human existence. He emphasized that if AI were to fall into the wrong hands, it could lead to catastrophic outcomes for humanity.

In his discussion, Yampolskiy predicted that the development of advanced AI might lead to the creation of biological tools capable of generating devastating viruses. “I can predict even before we get to super intelligence someone will create a very advanced biological tool, create a novel virus,” he stated, expressing fears that such technologies could be weaponized by malicious actors.

Concerns About AI’s Role in Society

The scientist’s assertions extend beyond the realm of employment; he also raised questions about the fundamental nature of reality. Yampolskiy stated, “We’re almost certainly living in a simulation,” a claim rooted in simulation theory, which posits that advanced civilizations might create simulations indistinguishable from reality. He referenced philosopher Nick Bostrom, who outlined the possibilities surrounding this theory, suggesting that if such simulations exist, they greatly outnumber the base reality.

He elaborated on the advancements in AI, noting, “AI is getting to the level of creating human-like agents and virtual reality is getting to the level of being indistinguishable from ours.” Yampolskiy believes that as technology continues to progress, the likelihood of living in a simulation increases.

The implications of AI’s evolution for the job market are particularly alarming for Yampolskiy. He argued that traditional career paths are becoming obsolete as AI technology surpasses human capabilities in various fields. “Look at computer science. Two years ago, we told people to learn to code. Now, AI knows how to code and is getting better,” he explained, underscoring the diminishing relevance of retraining for new skills.

Potential Outcomes and Societal Implications

Despite the grim outlook, Yampolskiy suggested that the government might intervene to address the economic ramifications of widespread automation. “If you create a lot of free labor, you have a lot of free wealth,” he said, proposing that AI could lead to an abundance of resources that might enable society to meet basic needs.

He also raised questions about how society would adapt to a future where many people may not need to work. “What happens to society? How does that impact crime rate, pregnancy rate, all sorts of issues? Nobody thinks about,” he remarked, highlighting the need for comprehensive discussions on the social implications of these changes.

While acknowledging the dire predictions surrounding AI, Yampolskiy emphasized that personal values and experiences—such as love and pain—remain unchanged regardless of whether we are in a simulation. He stated, “All the things you care about are still the same,” reinforcing the idea that human connections and values persist despite technological advancements.

The conversation surrounding AI’s potential risks and benefits is ongoing, with key figures in the field, including leaders from organizations like OpenAI, advocating for a balanced approach to regulation. As the landscape of artificial intelligence continues to evolve, the insights from experts like Dr. Roman V. Yampolskiy will likely play a crucial role in shaping public discourse and policy decisions.