The concept of AI-related “existential risk” refers to the possibility of AI development leading to catastrophic consequences for humanity, including possible human extinction. Among the main scenarios feared are hostile superintelligence, military use of AI, and increased inequalities. Figures such as Nick Bostrom, Elon Musk, and Stephen Hawking have expressed concerns about these risks. The “AI Pause Letter” of 2023, signed by more than 2,000 experts, called for a pause to the development of AI systems more powerful than GPT-4 in order to assess the risks. However, critics argue that the focus on existential risks may be used by big tech companies as an instrument to influence regulations in their favour and divert attention away from existing AI-related problems.