Concerns about advanced AI posing existential threats to humanity, with varying probabilities estimated by experts, may paradoxically serve as a catalyst for positive change. Historical parallels, such as the doctrine of Mutually Assured Destruction during the nuclear age, demonstrate how looming threats can lead to increased global cooperation and peace. The real danger lies not in AI turning against us, but in "bad actors" using AI for harmful purposes, driven by existing global injustices. Addressing these injustices could prevent potential AI-facilitated conflicts, pushing us towards a more equitable and peaceful world. This matters because it highlights the potential for existential threats to drive necessary global reforms and improvements.
