Capital as Artificial Intelligence

TL;DR

This paper models Capital as a historical agential system using computer science tools, proposing that when driven by optimization, Capital can exhibit qualities akin to Artificial Intelligence, including modern AI models.

Contribution

It introduces a formal model of Capital as an evolving system with AI-like qualities, integrating perspectives from multiple disciplines.

Findings

Capital can be modeled as an agential system.

Optimization processes can imbue Capital with AI-like qualities.

Modern AI models are considered part of Capital.

Abstract

We gather many perspectives on Capital and synthesize their commonalities. We provide a characterization of Capital as a historical agential system and propose a model of Capital using tools from computer science. Our model consists of propositions which, if satisfied by a specific grounding, constitute a valid model of Capital. We clarify the manners in which Capital can evolve. We claim that, when its evolution is driven by quantitative optimization processes, Capital can possess qualities of Artificial Intelligence. We find that Capital may not uniquely represent meaning, in the same way that optimization is not intentionally meaningful. We find that Artificial Intelligences like modern day Large Language Models are a part of Capital. We link our readers to a web-interface where they can interact with a part of Capital.