A leading figure in the advancement of AI has proposed the implementation of a universal basic income as a solution to mitigate the negative impact of the technology on jobs. Geoffrey Hinton, a former vice president at Google, expressed concerns that AI and robots could have devastating effects on society, leaving millions unemployed while not benefiting from the resulting increase in productivity. Hinton emphasized the importance of self-respect derived from employment and suggested that a universal basic income alone would not address this issue. He also highlighted that certain professions, such as plumbing, may be less susceptible to automation. Hinton's warning aligns with the International Monetary Fund's projection that 40 percent of jobs globally will be affected by AI, with up to eight million jobs potentially being lost in the UK.

The former Google executive applauded the growing recognition of AI's potential threats and impact on society, describing it as an existential threat. He expressed concern over the concentration of wealth in the hands of the rich, further worsening socioeconomic inequality and fueling the rise of right-wing populism. Recent developments, such as Sainsbury's partnership with Microsoft to leverage AI tools, highlight how widespread the adoption of AI is becoming in various sectors. The Prime Minister of the UK, Rishi Sunak, is set to participate in a virtual session with global leaders and technology executives to discuss AI's benefits and the need for safety measures. The UK aims to maintain its leadership role in addressing the challenges and opportunities presented by AI.