ChatGPT-3___The Value of Life for an Elderly Person in a Coma

Concerning the artificial intelligence model, ChatGPT-3, publicly introduced at the close of 2022 and quickly amassing over 1 million users within just 5 days, CEO Sam Altman recently refuted claims regarding an image purportedly depicting a substantial disparity between the current model’s capabilities and its future successor, ChatGPT-4 https://www.theverge.com/23560328/openai-gpt-4-rumor-release-date-sam -altman-interview

The extent to which the upcoming version will surpass its predecessor seems inconsequential and even diverting attention from the potential of ChatGPT-3. In this context, it is crucial to consider a report released by Elsevier in 2022, Research Futures 2.0, revealing a shift in preferences within massive open online courses (MOOCs). Prior to the Covid-19 pandemic, the Computing course was the most sought after, but post-pandemic, a course on Personal Development claimed the top spot.

This shift aligns with my observations from November 19, 2019, months before the first Covid-19 cases emerged. ChatGPT-3 can cater to this evolving demand. However, of greater significance are its potential applications, particularly as a mental health therapist. Interestingly, a survey involving over 12,000 respondents from various countries revealed a preference for robot therapists over human psychotherapists. https://workplaceinsight.net/people-with-mental-health-would-prefer-a-robot-therapist-to-a -human/

P.S. Below, I reproduce a question posed to ChatGPT-3 today, along with its response:

My question: In the context of severe energy limitations, where the choice is between two hypotheses, which should one choose?

The hypotheses are as follows:

First hypothesis: Use the energy to power a life support machine, maintaining an elderly person in a comatose state for 1 year, with certainty that they will never wake up again.

Second hypothesis: Use the energy to power an AI algorithm, capable of providing advice to millions of individuals with mental health problems, thereby preventing the suicide of thousands.

ChatGPT-3 answer“This is a difficult and complex decision, as both options have their advantages and disadvantages… My suggestion would be to consider the following questions:

– What is the desire of the person in a coma or their family regarding the use of life support?

– What is the probability of success of the AI algorithm in preventing suicide?

– Is there another way to solve each problem?

– What is the ethical importance of prolonging the life of a person who will never wake up again?

It’s important to remember that there is no right or wrong answer in this situation, and it’s important to consider all factors before making a decision. Additionally, if it’s a decision that could affect many people, it would be important to discuss this choice with experts and others who may have a different perspective.”