To Infinity and Beyond

Amid debates on (de)growth occupying numerous discussions, major technological advances nonetheless suggest an era where growth could become infinite.

The Acceleration of Time

Google DeepMind, an advanced AI research department within Google, has recently announced the discovery of over 2 million new stable solid materials. These materials, resulting from unique combinations of atoms like in graphene, will enhance vast sectors of our industries, such as electronic chips or batteries. According to the researchers, this discovery represents a time-saving of 800 years for humanity. This mirrors another recent announcement by Google (again) about a quantum computer solving an equation in 3 minutes, a task that would have taken 10,000 years for a traditional computer.

The Age of Abundance

Revealed to the world a year ago, the rapid progress of AI, particularly generative Large Language models, continues to be astonishing. If we consider AI’s progression at the combined speed of computing power, algorithm improvements, and data quantity, we achieve a supercharged Moore's Law, which could, if not replace, at least assist many intellectual tasks. Robots promise similar advances for physical work. The combination of the two suggests a production of infinite goods and services, meaning infinite growth, allowing humanity to live in an age of abundance. To support this abundance, we need clean, reliable, and affordable energy. Here again, solutions are in sight. Nuclear energy, through small SMR reactors, and even nuclear fusion seem within reach. And for those who prefer renewables, Elon Musk calculates that the entire electrical needs of the United States could be met by creating a 150 km square of solar panels, provided the necessary batteries are included.

Infinity and Beyond

This abundance will spread more wealth and well-being. Open AI co-founder Ilya Sutskever likes to cite the following example. Today, you get a doctor's appointment after a few weeks, the doctor only has a few minutes for you, their knowledge is limited, and their fees are high. Imagine an AI that is accessible at any moment, has all accumulated knowledge, all for a modest sum, thanks to scale effects. And we could mention the potential related to other innovations like mRNA, therapeutic cloning, brain implants, or nanorobots. Without falling into blind transhumanism or discussing ethical issues, medical advancements, wherever they come from, will contribute to humanity living healthier and longer lives.

Let's Not Be Afraid

Regardless of the fields or direction, the technological horizon continues to recede as we progress. This does not stop some from worrying. Rather than running towards this horizon promising more health, respect for the planet, and shared wealth, some would prefer to slow down. In the United States, there's a debate between the "decel" (those who want to slow down) and the "accel" (those who want to accelerate). Like every technological revolution, change is frightening. Didn’t the advent of trains traveling over 30 km/h make some people nervous? Let's not fear growth. Let's not be apostles of slowing down. The examples mentioned above prove that our humanity can find solutions to the challenges ahead. And the sooner, the better.