Convergence: Artificial intelligence and the new and old weapons of mass destruction

The concept of "convergence" explores how the dual-use potential of artificial intelligence (AI) systems can amplify the risks associated with other technologies, including biological, chemical, nuclear, and cyber technologies. This article discusses the concept of convergence by examining direct interactions between AI and other technological domains, such as biosecurity, chemical weapons, nuclear weapons, cybersecurity, and conventional weapons systems. The article highlights potential risks and benefits of these convergences, including AI-assisted identification of virulence factors in biosecurity, the generation of novel chemical weapons, the integration of AI into nuclear weapons command and control, the automation of cyberattacks, and the creation of mass-destructive conventional weapons systems. Additionally, the article introduces the concept of convergence by security environment, exploring how widespread use of AI systems could affect misinformation, nuclear risk, and competitive dynamics between nations. The article discusses different schools of thought on convergence, addressing the balance between the benefits and risks of AI integration with other technologies.

Link to the full article: Convergence: Artificial intelligence and the new and old weapons of mass destruction - Bulletin of the Atomic Scientists (thebulletin.org)