The Power Play at OpenAI
Sam Altman, the CEO of OpenAI, the renowned creator of ChatGPT, was recently dismissed and just as quickly reinstated. This turn of events raises concerns about the direction of AI development. It appears that the future of artificial intelligence is now firmly in the hands of individuals driven by speed and profits, disregarding other important factors. This elite group, with their own vision for technology, is set to impose their ideals on the rest of humanity, and the consequences may not be favorable for the majority.
OpenAI’s Philanthropic Facade
When the founders of OpenAI initially established the organization, they claimed it would be a philanthropic entity benefiting humanity and safeguarding it from potential harm. OpenAI even positioned itself as a nonprofit, with a small board comprising academics and experts, intentionally excluding investors. However, the events of November 17 remain clouded in mystery. The most likely interpretation is that Altman’s focus on commercial interests and the rapid development of powerful AI models troubled some board members, leading to his dismissal.
A Call for Concern in Silicon Valley
It is somewhat encouraging to know that there are still individuals in Silicon Valley who prioritize ethical considerations and the need for guardrails. The digital technology sector has already inflicted significant damage on jobs, wages, and even democracy. Facebook and other social media platforms are prime examples of how technology has been used to propagate hatred under the guise of “engagement” and increased ad revenue. Altman’s removal from OpenAI’s board compelled the entire board to resign, and a new board, likely more aligned with rapid scaling and profit-seeking, has taken its place.
The Profit Motive: Driving Recklessness
Disruption and uncontrolled growth have become the holy grail of the tech industry, with Altman serving as one of its most ardent advocates. However, this obsession with unsustainable growth rates and significant losses contradicts the principles of the traditional capitalist market system. Venture capital is primarily responsible for fostering this mode of operation, but in the case of OpenAI, traditional VCs are not necessary due to Microsoft’s significant investment of $10 billion in the company. Microsoft’s executives remained steadfast in their goals during Altman’s crisis: attracting top talent, offering unlimited financial resources, and pushing the boundaries.
The Social Responsibility Gap
Unfortunately, the prevailing mindset in Silicon Valley places little emphasis on social responsibility or the consequences faced by ordinary people. Marc Andreessen, a prominent venture capitalist and Altman supporter, epitomizes this view. In his “Techno-Optimist’s Manifesto,” Andreessen makes audacious statements, attributing the invention of the internet to solving isolation and claiming that technology can eliminate poverty. However, he conveniently ignores the growing homelessness crisis in the Bay Area, the mental health struggles among teenagers, the humanitarian crisis in Myanmar, and the deep polarization within the United States. Technology, it seems, has exacerbated if not created these problems.
A Dangerous Vision for the Future
Altman’s previous role as the founder of Y Combinator, a startup accelerator, sheds light on the prevailing mindset in Silicon Valley. Accelerator applicants are asked to describe a time they successfully “hacked” a non-computer system to their advantage. The tech industry’s mantra of “move fast and break things” or “ship it” reflects a reckless disregard for regulations and responsible practices. Any attempts at implementing guardrails or regulations in Washington D.C. evoke strong opposition from top tech executives who have fully embraced a libertarian fantasy where they perceive themselves as indispensable.
A Stark Warning for Humanity
Reflecting on H.G. Wells’ dystopian novel, “The Shape of Things to Come,” written in the 1930s, we find an alarming parallel to our current reality. Wells envisioned a future where uncontrolled technological development led to the near destruction of civilization. However, he also warned of a new elite emerging, armed with technology, who would impose their control and bring about peace. Today, we are witnessing the dangers of unbridled technology and the emergence of an elite group that holds the keys to our future. It is crucial that we address these concerns and ensure that the development of AI and technology prioritizes the well-being of humanity.
Daron Acemoglu and Simon Johnson are esteemed professors at MIT and co-authors of “Power and Progress: Our 1,000-Year Struggle Over Technology & Prosperity.”
