>I don't follow the chain further back than that

Why even have an argument if you get to pick the random constraints that have a lot of issues in meshing with reality.

We are a chain that started 4 billion years ago from seemingly nothing and lead to this point. When inventing X-risk AI it won't look any different. One prompt is entered and another 4 billion year chain starts electronically instead of biologically.

Why draw the line at the person with the brain capable of free thought, instead of their great great great grandparents? Am I understanding your question correctly?