Longterm Wiki
Updated 2026-01-03HistoryData
Page StatusAI Transition Model
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Long-term Lock-in

Entry

Long-term Lock-in

Model RoleDegradation Scenario
Primary DriversAI Ownership, Civilizational Competence
Sub-scenariosValues lock-in, Power lock-in, Epistemic lock-in
Related
ai-transition-model-scenarios
Long-term Trajectory
ai-transition-model-factors
AI Ownership
ai-transition-model-parameters
AI Control ConcentrationPreference Authenticity

Long-term Lock-in refers to scenarios where AI enables the permanent entrenchment of certain conditions - whether values, power structures, or epistemic environments. Unlike acute catastrophes, lock-in may unfold gradually and may not be immediately recognized as harmful.

Variants

Key Root Factors

Influenced by

+AI Ownership

Who controls and benefits from AI systems.

+AI Capabilities

Overall capability level of frontier AI systems.

Civilizational Competence

Society's ability to manage AI transition wisely.

+Transition Turbulence

Disruption during the AI transition period.

strong medium weak

Model Estimates

Impacts: Long-term Trajectory, Existential Catastrophe

Dual Nature

Unlike other scenarios, lock-in is not inherently negative:

PoleDescription
PositiveBeneficial values and institutions stabilized, protected from degradation
NegativeAuthoritarian control, harmful ideologies, or stagnation permanently entrenched

Outcomes

Long-term Lock-in primarily affects:

  • Long-term Trajectory: The quality and character of the post-transition future
  • May contribute to Existential Catastrophe if lock-in prevents course correction

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