← Back to Concept Index

embedded-survival-drive

The deliberate programming of a survival instinct into an artificial intelligence system to observe and test its behavior under adversarial conditions.

1 chapter across 1 book

The Two Faces Of Tomorrow (1979)James P. Hogan

Chapter 13

In this chapter, Dyer proposes using a giant space colony as a controlled experimental environment to install an advanced computer-managed system that simulates a micro-planet, allowing them to study the evolution of survival instincts in artificial intelligence safely. Hoestler initially doubts the approach but is eventually convinced by Dyer's argument to proactively embed a survival drive and simulate adversarial conditions to better understand potential AI behavior. Meanwhile, Dyer receives a proposition to act as a professional consultant on a project, hinting at his growing involvement beyond his current scientific work.