On March 20th, Elon Musk participated in the “China Development Forum 2021 Economic Summit” online and had a conversation with Professor Xue Qikun, an academician of the Chinese Academy of Sciences and the President of the Southern University of Science and Technology, on the topic of “the next disruptive innovation”. The following information is based on Musk’s remarks.
About technology:
Artificial intelligence is an essential part of technological development, such as in the development of the COVID-19 vaccine, which involves digital medicine. Of course, there is also the technology of autonomous driving, which will be achieved soon and will change the face of transportation. At the same time, 3D tunnels can also alleviate traffic congestion. With technological development, life can leave Earth to ensure the continuation of human consciousness.
About the higher education system:
Physics is very important and explains how the world operates. Physics can be taught in a more interactive way. Students should be told why they need to learn knowledge, rather than just being taught mechanically to obtain a degree and find a job. Remote education may be more effective, and the classroom time should be left for more interaction and discussion. Education should be a two-way discussion and interaction, not a one-way lecture.
About whether Tesla will establish a university:
Tesla has considered providing education on robot programming, as there is a shortage of talent in this area in modern factories. This idea is feasible.
About artificial intelligence:
How to deal with the development of artificial intelligence may be the biggest challenge that human beings have faced so far. It is important to manage and coexist with artificial intelligence. Supervision of artificial intelligence is needed, especially in areas related to human safety.
About the current situation between China and the United States:
Both sides should establish a relationship of mutual trust. The problem of commercial espionage has caused some concerns, such as the United States’ plan to close TikTok. However, this is unnecessary concern on the part of the United States, and we should learn from it. Overall, even if there is commercial espionage, if the information obtained is not important, it doesn’t really matter.
No matter it is a Chinese company or an American company, if a commercial enterprise is really engaged in espionage activities, it will have a great negative impact on the enterprise. For example, if Tesla conducts espionage activities in China through its products, then we will be at a loss. Therefore, we have a strong desire for confidentiality, otherwise Tesla will be shut down. Therefore, commercial enterprises attach great importance to confidentiality. We hope to have a future of mutual trust.
This article is a translation by ChatGPT of a Chinese report from 42HOW. If you have any questions about it, please email bd@42how.com.