Bibi mulled over what he learned at his meetings with Sam Altman (ChatGPT) and Elon Musk (Tesla, SpaceX, Twitter, and OpenAI.) He recalled discussing the subject of having a national policy on dealing with artificial intelligence (AI.) Based on those discussions, the PM created a think tank to propose regulations on AI. He understood AI’s potential risks and benefits. He witnessed the dizzying pace of AI’s progress. Bibi loved his quote, “We are at the dawn of a new era for humanity, an era of artificial intelligence.”
Amazing! I thought, “Bibi sounded Churchillian.”
I wanted him to add, “One small step for computer scientists, one giant leap for AI.”
But my eyes forced me to reread Bibi’s words, “We are at dawn of a new era for humanity, an era of artificial intelligence.”
“Those are some pretty big, powerful and scary words,” I pondered.
I recalled, “The space era, the atomic era, and the computer era. Humanity had done pretty well (excluding atomic warfare) in its journey through those eras.”
I wondered, “How would AI change our conquest of space or our handling of nuclear weapons or our fear of robots.”
So I decided to help Israel’s new AI think tank by sending them an example of the ChatGPT’s work product. I wanted them to better understand the challenges they face in this new AI era.
So I asked ChatGPT to please write me an essay comparing George Washington to David Ben-Gurion.
Here’s what Chatty wrote in two seconds.
ChatGPT
Title: George Washington and David Ben-Gurion: Founding Fathers of Nations
Introduction: George Washington and David Ben-Gurion, two influential figures from different parts of the world and different times, played pivotal roles in the formation and establishment of their respective nations. Washington, the first President of the United States, led the American Revolutionary War and laid the foundations for a democratic republic. Ben-Gurion, the first Prime Minister of Israel, was a key figure in the creation of the Jewish state and its early development. While they lived in different eras and faced unique challenges, they shared common qualities and achievements that shaped their nations. This essay aims to compare and contrast the lives, leadership styles, and legacies of George Washington and David Ben-Gurion.
I. Background and Early Life: George Washington, born in 1732 in Virginia, grew up on a plantation and received a basic education. He gained military experience during the French and Indian War and later became a respected commander during the American Revolution. On the other hand, David Ben-Gurion was born in 1886 in Russian Poland and emigrated to Ottoman Palestine in his youth. Ben-Gurion became involved in the Zionist movement, advocating for Jewish self-determination and the establishment of a Jewish homeland in Palestine.
II. Leadership during Struggles for Independence: Both Washington and Ben-Gurion emerged as leaders during their nations’ struggles for independence. Washington commanded the Continental Army and led the American colonies in a long and arduous war against British rule. His strategic acumen and perseverance were essential in securing victory and establishing the United States. Similarly, Ben-Gurion played a central role in the Zionist movement and was instrumental in the establishment of Israel. He helped organize and lead Jewish paramilitary forces, securing Jewish rights and independence in the face of Arab opposition.
III. Political Leadership and Nation-Building: Following their nations’ independence, Washington and Ben-Gurion faced the daunting task of nation-building. Washington presided over the Constitutional Convention, where he played a key role in crafting the United States Constitution. As the first President, he laid the groundwork for a strong federal government and established many enduring precedents, including a peaceful transfer of power. Ben-Gurion, as Israel’s first Prime Minister, worked tirelessly to build a democratic and inclusive state. He focused on integrating diverse Jewish immigrant communities, developing infrastructure, and fostering economic growth.
IV. Legacy and Enduring Influence: Both Washington and Ben-Gurion left lasting legacies that continue to shape their nations today. Washington’s leadership established the principles of democracy, liberty, and the rule of law in the United States. His farewell address warned against the dangers of political factions and foreign entanglements, emphasizing the importance of unity and national identity. Ben-Gurion’s vision of a democratic Jewish state laid the foundation for Israel’s political and social institutions. He prioritized defense, national unity, and the absorption of Jewish immigrants, setting the stage for Israel’s development as a modern and thriving nation.
Conclusion: George Washington and David Ben-Gurion, despite their different backgrounds and historical contexts, shared remarkable similarities as visionary leaders and nation-builders. They demonstrated unwavering determination, leadership skills, and a commitment to democratic principles. Their contributions were instrumental in securing the independence of their respective nations and shaping their political systems. The legacies of George Washington and David Ben-Gurion continue to inspire generations and remind us of the transformative power of leadership in the founding of nations.
Now, that’s what I call an essay.
And both these leaders faced enormous challenges, existential challenges and they pulled it off.
Let’s hope and pray in the dawn of this new era, that today’s leaders, including Bibi, have the transformative powers to rein in AI.
