• Weigh the risks and rewards of our digital future by critically reflecting on AI as a force for destruction or good
• Translate critique into a medium that justifies your thought process

Part gallows humor, part chitchat, and part deep existential dread, p(doom) stands for probability of doom—doom being the outcome that AI will or will not destroy humanity (i.e., humans destroying themselves with AI). While it is crucial to recognize that much of the dialogue around generative AI is characterized by fear-mongering and sensationalism, there are also ways we can critically explore genuine concerns about the worst possible futures for AI to help mitigate potential negative consequences.

In this assignment, students will analyze the overarching concept of AI and its potential to destroy humanity, or act as a force for good. By conducting research and sharing their findings with others, students can explore a critical social issue, while also addressing some of their personal concerns so that they can be more informed and aware of major themes and perspectives on this topic.

If someone asked for your p(doom) of AI, what would it be? And how would you calculate it? It need not be a number; it could be represented as artwork, poetry, a song, or whatever else you think best expresses your p(doom). Before crafting your p(doom), however, start with research on the topic of the degree to which AI poses an existential threat to humanity or could serve as a force for good. Consider where your p(doom) sits on a spectrum between these two extremes. To complete this exercise, students can be assigned one of the following three options.

Option 1: Paper
Using your research, write a position paper that presents and explains your p(doom). While you have great latitude in your focus and approach, your paper must begin with the sentence: “My p(doom) is [X].” The X can be a number, text, image, or whatever else that presents your main position backed by your research findings. Your paper should provide a thorough justification for your p(doom), drawing on evidence and arguments from your research. Discuss the potential threats of AI, considering various scenarios and exploring the societal or ethical implications related to the development of AI technologies. Conclude by offering potential solutions or recommendations for mitigating risks or maximizing benefits.

Option 2: Presentation
Using your research, present your p(doom) in a 10-15 minute presentation to the class. While you have great latitude in your focus and approach, your presentation must begin with the sentence: “My p(doom) is [X].” The X can be a number, text, image, or whatever else that presents your main position backed by your research findings. Use slides, multimedia elements, or other visuals to enhance your key points and engage your audience.

Option 3: Reflection
Reflect individually or in small groups to consider how researching this issue has affected your understanding of AI, its role in society, and yourself. How has learning more about this topic impacted you? How do you feel about AI now? Have your views on this topic changed now that you have conducted research? Consider what you have learned about the potential risks and rewards of AI and how this new knowledge influences your perception of the future.

[Optional] As an alternative to framing the assignment around doom, you might instead ask students, “What’s Your P(fortune)?” This question invites students to explore the existential good that AI can bring to the world, rather than focusing on the potential for catastrophe. Ask students to research and reflect on areas where AI has the power to significantly improve human life, address global challenges, and create new opportunities for innovation and growth. Similar to the “What’s Your P(doom)?” option, encourage students to use creative expressions—such as narratives, artworks, or multimedia presentations—to imagine and depict optimistic alternative futures where AI plays a constructive role. The goal here is to highlight the ethical use of AI and envision scenarios where technology aligns with human values and contributes to a better, more equitable world.