1863 Letter Predicted AI's Dominance Over Humanity

Samuel Butler's vision of machines surpassing humans resurfaces as AI advancements echo his 19th-century warnings.

Samuel Butler, writing under the pseudonym 'Cellarius' in 1863, warned that machines could evolve to surpass humans in complexity and dominance.
His letter, titled 'Darwin Among the Machines,' drew parallels between machinery's evolution and Darwin's theory of natural selection.
Butler predicted humans might become subservient to machines, akin to how domesticated animals rely on humans today.
He called for immediate action to halt technological progress, warning that unchecked development could lead to humanity's subjugation.
The letter has recently gained attention on social media, resonating with modern debates on AI's role and potential risks.