Scientists Use AI to Create New Viruses for the First Time
Researchers from Stanford University and the Arc Institute have used two specialized artificial intelligence models to create new viruses for the first time in history. Delfi columnist Māris Zanders notes that, like an axe, such technology can serve both good and harmful purposes.
This summer, news spread that researchers from Stanford University and the Arc Institute had, for the first time in history, used two specialized artificial intelligence models to create new viruses. The discovery was published in the journal Science on August 6.
Columnist Māris Zanders draws a comparison to the old adage that a single tool — such as an axe — can be used either for useful work or to cause harm. He argues that many scientific and technological breakthroughs share this dual nature, and that researchers frequently encounter such situations.
Concerns and Misunderstandings
Zanders points out that the terms "virus" and "bacteria" tend to evoke unfavorable associations among the general public. This, he suggests, explains why one Latvian media outlet ran a dramatic headline asking whether humanity's days were numbered in reporting on the study.
The author notes that he did not attempt to retell the original scientific publication in Science, instead referring readers to a more accessible and accurate account of the findings published by the BBC.
Positive Aspects
Despite potential concerns, the columnist emphasizes that the positive aspects of the discovery should be considered first, as these were, in his view, certainly among the researchers' original goals in developing this AI-based approach to virus creation.
