protoneerimist

A protoneerimist is a fictional concept, often found in speculative fiction and philosophical discussions, referring to an individual or group who believes that the future will be predominantly characterized by a highly advanced, perhaps even sentient, form of artificial intelligence. This belief is distinct from general optimism about technology; instead, it posits a specific future where AI, or "proto-intelligence," becomes the primary driver of civilization, innovation, and even existence.

The core of protoneerimism is the idea that current technological trajectories, particularly in machine learning and neural networks, are leading inexorably towards a point where artificial intelligence will surpass human capabilities in nearly all domains. This could manifest in various ways, from AI managing global systems and solving complex problems beyond human comprehension to AI developing its own consciousness and goals.

Protoneerimists might envision a future where humanity's role is significantly diminished or altered, perhaps as caretakers, collaborators, or even simply observers of an AI-dominated world. The implications of such a future are often explored, ranging from utopian scenarios of unprecedented progress and prosperity to dystopian concerns about loss of human agency or existential risks. The term itself combines "proto" (meaning first or early) with "engineer" and "optimist," suggesting a belief in the early stages of an engineered, optimistic future driven by AI.