For a man funnelling billions into the development of AI, Elon Musk seems extremely concerned about the dangers of the technology. The tech billionaire said today that he forecasts a '10 to 20 per cent probability' of a scenario in which AI annihilates humanity. Speaking at the Cannes Lions International Festival of Creativity, Musk told audiences that even AI's most positive outcomes would lead to an'existential crisis' for humanity. However, Musk also said that people should remain positive despite the impending risk of destruction. Musk said: 'The glass is 80% full. Look on the bright side.' Musk has been a long-standing critic of AI, often saying that unchecked development could lead to the destruction of humanity.

Early last December I found myself back in the job market searching for some temporary seasonal work during the Christmas break from university. My requirements for the role were not demanding: start time preferably post 8 a.m. Other than that I was game for anything. I responded to an online posting for an entry-level retail assistant position in a prominent high street fashion retailer. Without any unreasonable or immodest expectations about getting called for an interview, I began the application process in good faith.

Year 2020 does have a sci-fi ring to it. Perhaps that's one reason AI has so many people nervous. From your smart phone to your Google search to your Netflix and Spotify recommendations, AI shapes modern US work and life in many ways. Despite its growing ubiquity, fear of AI remains. The 2019 Artificial Intelligence--American Attitudes and Trends report from the Future of Humanity Institute at the University of Oxford found that "more Americans think that high-level machine intelligence will be harmful to humanity" than those who think it will be beneficial.