AGI has been prominent in pop culture since at least 1968 with 2001: A Space Odyssey. There is a place in our heads for it. And really I think that's just the modern version of anthropomorphic spirits: angels, devils, gods, etc. It gives AGI a feeling of inevitablility.
Of course, things like jetpacks and flying cars also have had that feeling. As well as Stephenson's metaverse.
Of course, things like jetpacks and flying cars also have had that feeling. As well as Stephenson's metaverse.