The Idea of Human-Level Intelligence
I noticed Sam Altman talking about "human-level AI"—a concept that’s sparked my curiosity. What exactly does it mean for intelligence to reach a "human level"?
To me, human-level intelligence isn’t just about solving problems or processing information quickly. It’s about the unique way humans understand, create, and build knowledge over time.
Here’s how I break it down:
First, there’s creativity and originality. Humans have this amazing ability to come up with entirely new ideas—ideas that have never existed before. Whether it’s a scientific theory, a new technology, or an art form, humans can imagine things that go beyond the familiar. Philosophers have long debated what makes creativity possible. Some say it’s our ability to think abstractly and symbolically, using concepts and language to represent things that aren’t right in front of us.
Then there’s memory and knowledge preservation. Human intelligence builds on itself over generations. Our ideas, inventions, and discoveries don’t disappear when we do; they get passed down and refined by others. This cumulative knowledge allows us to make progress quickly—standing on the “shoulders of giants.” Daniel Dennett, a well-known philosopher, calls this cultural evolution, and he argues it’s one of the defining features of human intelligence.
Finally, there’s the ability to turn ideas into innovations. Humans turn those concepts into practical tools, systems, and technologies that shape the world around us. These innovations then speed up the rate at which we learn and discover, creating a cycle of progress. It’s a distinctly human way of thinking. Flying wheel effect, right :p
So, to me, human-level intelligence means more than just smart problem-solving. It’s a complex blend of creativity, memory, and the drive to innovate.
