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Symposium

Of Rising Scholars

2026

Rachel will be presenting at The Symposium of Rising Scholars on Sunday, March 22nd! To attend the event and see Rachel's presentation.

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Rachel Rishita

Class of 2026Millcreek, WA

About

Hello! My name is Rachel Rishita and I am very excited to learn more about the different implications of the negative effects of Artificial Intelligence.

Rachel's Symposium Presentation

Project Portfolio

Disentangling Fiction from Frameworks: A Critical Review of Instrumental Convergence in AI Ethics Risk

Started Dec. 4, 2024

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Abstract or project description

This paper debunks the hypothetical situation presented by instrumental convergence -- the belief that Artificial Intelligence will develop sub-goals which will make it indifferent to its previous programming and unstoppable against humans -- by stating how AI lacks intrinsic desires, self-preservation instincts, and agency unless explicitly programmed with such tendencies. In other words, lacking these characteristics which would motivate it to develop a selfish character is unrealistic and a product of anthropomorphism, which wrongly associates AI with human attributes that make instrumental convergence possible. Having such associations with AI is dangerous as it may lead to its mischaracterization, overestimation, and lack of accountability for the people that developed its bugs and errors. Overall, instrumental convergence is unrealistic and provides additional barriers to AI Alignment with human values and understanding of its capabilities.