Modern Prometheus: tracing the ill-defined path to AGI

Abstract

This article traces the conceptual lineage of AGI through three influential paradigms: strong AI, human-level AI, and AGI—highlighting the philosophical and operational tensions shaping contemporary debates. The article examines emerging reorientations toward operational benchmarks that decouple artificial intelligence from human-like cognition. It proposes a novel taxonomy to evaluate divergent developmental trajectories—Promethean and Noctuidean orientations—and argues that anthropocentric biases may limit recognition of diverse intelligences and amplify risks in AI deployment. Through careful analysis of historical contexts, philosophical arguments, recent technological advances, and emerging legal disputes, this article underscores an urgent need to clarify definitions and goals in the race to AGI.