Artificial General Intelligence (AGI)
A hypothetical AI system with human-level cognitive abilities across all domains, capable of learning any intellectual task that a human can perform.
AGI vs. Narrow AI
Current AI systems are narrow — they excel at specific tasks but can't transfer knowledge broadly. AGI would match human flexibility: understanding context, reasoning across domains, learning from minimal examples, and adapting to novel situations.
Current Progress
Large language models show surprising generality but still lack true understanding, long-term planning, and robust reasoning. Whether scaling current approaches leads to AGI is hotly debated. Estimates for AGI range from 5 to 50+ years.
Safety Concerns
AGI would be transformative and potentially dangerous. Key concerns include alignment (ensuring AGI pursues human-compatible goals), control (maintaining ability to correct or shut down AGI), and the potential for rapid self-improvement.