Mod parent up. All technology can be used, misused, over-applied, and under-applied. Sci-fi type AI will never be a threat. All computers only do what they're programmed to do, and only effect what they're allowed to effect. If you think it's a stupid idea to hook up a random number generator to a time bomb, then Congratulations: you have all the sense necessary to avoid AI Armageddon. If you aren't afraid to point out when other people are about to do the same thing, then Congratulations Again: you have all the courage you need to prevent your neighbor from causing AI Armageddon. Some things really *are* that simple. I speak as someone who's worked on and around "artificial intelligence" for the better part of ten years, though not as an academic researcher.