Microsoft founder Bill Gates believes that artificial intelligence (AI) will have a transformative impact on society, but he doesn’t think it will replace software engineers. In a podcast interview with Zerodha founder Nikhil Kamath, Gates outlined the benefits of AI, particularly in education and productivity. He also addressed concerns about AI replacing jobs, calling them “alarmist.”
Gates emphasized the importance of capitalism, citing its ability to foster innovation and economic growth. While he acknowledged the potential for AI to disrupt society, he does not see it happening in the next 20 years.
“The amazing thing about this is that we know it can help in key areas, and we know it can create educational tutors. We have seen several projects in India and the US that are showing great results. The potential is incredible if we knew that all it did was make jobs more productive,” Gates said.
He specifically addressed the concerns related to the role of software engineers in future and called it “alarmist” as the relevance of the kind of work they do will continue.
“We still need those software engineers as we are not going to stop needing them,” the Microsoft founder added.
On the question that AI can replace all jobs, Bill Gates responded in abstract manner and laid out how wonderful the technology will be for old people or handicapped people. He also mentioned that the has the potential to alter and dismantle “the very organising principles of society and what we value.” But he gave a timeline and said that he doesn’t see it happening for the next 20 years.
“Although I am not sure of that,” Bill Gates said with a smile.
Capitalism vs Socialism took the podcast in intresting trajectory when he asked Bill Gates about his preference on Capitalism vs Socialism debate. The Microsoft CEO didn’t waste much time choosing capitalism and elaborated on the reason behind his choice.
“Capitalism gives you the freedom to start a new business or try out a new product, and that is an idea of freedom as it is not based on your background or class, and there is a discovery power,” he sadid.
