Editor's note: Andy Mok, a special commentator on current affairs for CGTN, is a senior research fellow at the Center for China and Globalization. The article reflects the author's opinions and not necessarily the views of CGTN.

Since its inception in 2014, the World Internet Conference (WIC) Wuzhen Summit has been a cornerstone event in the global discourse on internet policy, digital transformation and the integration of technology into global governance. Held annually in the historic town of Wuzhen, east China's Zhejiang Province, the conference has mirrored the rapid evolution of the digital world – growing from early discussions on internet connectivity to encompassing advanced technologies like big data, artificial intelligence (AI) and cloud computing.

When the WIC first convened, the digital landscape was already shifting significantly. By 2014, mobile internet usage had begun to rival, and in some regions surpass, desktop usage. Smartphones and tablets were transforming how people accessed information, communicated and conducted business. Recognizing these changes, the WIC's agenda has evolved to address not just the infrastructure of the internet but also the emerging technologies that were beginning to reshape society.

This progression underscores the WIC's commitment to staying at the forefront of technological trends. The conference has expanded its focus to include mobile internet, e-commerce, big data, cloud computing and AI – reflecting the internet's integration into every facet of daily life.

Historically, Western perspectives dominated the global discussion on the future of the internet, often overlooking contributions from other nations, including China. The WIC has played a crucial role in changing this mindset by providing a platform for China to share its experiences, innovations and philosophies with the global community. This inclusivity enriches international dialogue, promoting a more equitable approach to internet governance and digital development.

Looking ahead: The emergence of AGI

One of the most significant topics shaping our future is the development of artificial general intelligence (AGI) and artificial super intelligence (ASI). AGI refers to AI systems with human-level cognitive abilities, capable of understanding and learning any human intellectual task. ASI goes even further, epitomizing AI that surpasses human intelligence in all aspects.

Prominent figures in AI express optimism about achieving AGI soon: Elon Musk predicts AGI could emerge within five to ten years. Sam Altman, CEO of OpenAI, suggests it might be even sooner, while Geoffrey Hinton, a pioneer in AI, believes human-level AI could be achieved within the next two decades.

While AGI and ASI promise immense benefits such as breakthroughs in medicine and technology, they also pose significant existential risks, like "loss of control" or "misalignment of goals." ASI could become unpredictable and beyond human management. If ASI's objectives don't align with human values, it might pursue actions harmful to humanity. These risks underscore the urgent need for robust moral and ethical frameworks to guide the development of AGI and ASI, ensuring they align with human values and safety considerations.

Integrating Chinese philosophy into AGI development

As a professor at Beijing Foreign Studies University and a Senior Research Fellow at the Center for China and Globalization, my work focuses on how emerging technologies like AI reshape international relations and economic systems.

I have often emphasized that as we approach the era of AGI, it is crucial not only to consider what AGI will do but also how it will develop and under what moral and ethical guidelines. I believe that Chinese philosophy offers valuable insights into shaping these frameworks.

Key principles from Chinese philosophy include "harmony" and "balance," that is, promoting social cohesion by encouraging AGI systems to reach an equilibrium between competing interests. I add to the mix "interconnectedness," namely recognizing that actions have far-reaching consequences, guiding AGI to consider the broader impact of its decisions on society and the environment, as well as "dialectical reasoning," embracing complexity and contradictions and allowing AGI to navigate nuanced ethical dilemmas more effectively.

By integrating these principles, we can address gaps that may exist in Western-centric ethical approaches, ensuring that AGI development aligns with a diverse set of human values. This multicultural ethical framework is essential in reducing the risks associated with AGI and in promoting a future where AI serves humanity positively.

As we stand on the cusp of transformative advancements in technology, incorporating diverse perspectives becomes not just beneficial but necessary. The WIC's commitment to fostering global collaboration and amplifying underrepresented voices positions it as a critical player in guiding the future of the internet. By embracing a variety of cultural and philosophical viewpoints, including insights from Chinese philosophy, can we ensure that technology evolves in a way that is ethical and beneficial for all, truly embodying a people-centered digital future.

The WIC's evolution underscores the importance of integrating various cultural and philosophical ideas, addressing potential challenges while maximizing the benefits of the digital age for humanity, thus heralding a people-centered digital future.

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