Skip to content

Courses Quote by Geoffrey Hinton

“As soon as you have good mechanical technology, you can make things like backhoes that can dig holes in the road. But of course a backhoe can knock your head off. But you don't want to not develop a backhoe because it can knock your head off, that would be regarded as silly.” quote by Geoffrey Hinton
Download Open image
“As soon as you have good mechanical technology, you can make things like backhoes that can dig holes in the road. But of course a backhoe can knock your head off. But you don't want to not develop a backhoe because it can knock your head off, that would be regarded as silly.”

Geoffrey Hinton

About This Quote

Source Speech: Interview on AI and technology, 2023

Advancing technology brings both benefits and risks; we must accept manageable dangers while pursuing progress.

In simple terms: New tools can be dangerous, but we should still develop them.

Key Takeaway

Balance innovation with safety.

Themes

technology risk progress

Mood

cautious optimistic

Type

pragmatic inspirational

When to use this quote

  • construction
  • urban planning
  • robotics
  • public safety

Key Concepts

AI engineering ethics

Questions to Reflect On

  • How can we design safeguards for powerful tools?
  • When should we pause development due to risk?
A Different Perspective

Ignoring hazards can lead to accidents and public backlash.

3.2 out of 5 (6 ratings)

More by Geoffrey Hinton

Explore all 52 Geoffrey Hinton quotes

More Courses quotes

Browse all 6,995 Courses quotes