Elon Musk, the visionary entrepreneur behind Tesla, SpaceX, and Neuralink, has frequently voiced his thoughts on the trajectory of human civilization. In a recent interview, Musk outlined what he believes to be the most significant milestones in the history of evolution and human progress. Among these, he emphasized that digital superintelligence—an advanced form of artificial intelligence—deserves a place in the top ten pivotal moments of human history.
“Looking at from a very broad standpoint of a very high level, say, what are milestones that would perhaps be in the top 10?” Musk said. “And from the general standpoint of evolution in general, you’d say, like, there would be single celled life, multicellular life, differentiation into plants and animals, life going from ocean to land, mammals, cognitive function in mammals, like humans, then also, then there would be life becoming multi planetary. Digital superintelligence would fit on that, you know, essentially top 10 list,” he added.
Musk’s perspective places artificial intelligence in the same category as other transformative evolutionary and technological breakthroughs. The journey from single-celled organisms to complex human cognition has been marked by groundbreaking transitions, such as the emergence of multicellular life and the migration of species from water to land. Similarly, the advent of AI, particularly digital superintelligence, signifies a shift that could redefine the future of humanity. Musk has long warned about the risks and opportunities associated with AI, and spoken about how it would radically change human life.
The implication of Musk’s statement is profound. Just as life expanding beyond Earth would mark a new era for humanity, the development of digital superintelligence could usher in unprecedented advancements—or existential challenges. As AI systems become more capable, their integration into society must be approached with responsibility and foresight. Musk’s inclusion of AI in his “top 10 milestones” list underscores the magnitude of its potential impact, signaling a future where artificial intelligence may stand alongside some of the most defining moments in the history of life itself.