Manish Gupta, Senior Director at Google DeepMind, says the transformative potential of artificial intelligence is far greater than many currently recognize. He believes AI will push human capabilities to “unimaginable” levels and help solve some of humanity’s toughest challenges, such as finding cures for diseases that have long defied effective treatments. According to Gupta, society has not yet fully grasped how fundamentally AI could change the world, particularly in areas like scientific discovery and innovation.
Gupta draws parallels between AI’s future impact and historical turning points like the advent of fire and electricity, suggesting AI could be similarly revolutionary. He points out that early evidence already shows AI dramatically accelerating progress in complex scientific and technical fields. This belief underscores why major tech companies, including Google, continue to invest heavily in research, infrastructure, and partnerships that expand AI’s reach and capabilities.
Despite the optimism, Gupta emphasizes that AI must be developed responsibly. He argues that responsible AI principles — from careful dataset selection to ethical deployment — are crucial to minimizing harm and maximizing benefits. He also insists that regulation is necessary but should strike a balance that protects people without stifling innovation. Gupta praises approaches that balance safety with technological progress as examples for nations to follow.
Google’s activities around AI reflect this dual focus on impact and responsibility. The company has committed funding and support to AI research, including initiatives in health, agriculture, education, and sustainable cities, as well as grants for developing AI models catering to diverse languages and regional needs. These efforts highlight a broader strategy to harness AI for global benefit while navigating its complex societal implications.
