The piece also explores OpenAI's ambitious goal to build an artificial general intelligence (AGI) that could drastically change human history. The company's employees acknowledge the unfairness of a small group creating AI that could potentially render jobs obsolete but justify it by arguing that AGI will generate tremendous wealth. The article criticizes this mindset as cold, rationalist, and paternalistic. It concludes by suggesting that OpenAI's actions reflect a belief that the stakes are too high to wait for consent or pivot, and that current societal rules need not apply when your technology aims to rewrite them.
Key takeaways:
- Scarlett Johansson alleges that OpenAI used a voice similar to hers for their new digital assistant, Sky, without her permission, which CEO Sam Altman denies.
- OpenAI's actions are seen as an example of tech companies ignoring ethical concerns and operating with impunity, particularly in the realm of generative AI which often uses data without the consent of creators or copyright owners.
- OpenAI's end goal is to build an artificial general intelligence (AGI) that could significantly alter human history, a goal they believe justifies their actions and the potential ethical concerns.
- OpenAI's approach is seen as cold, rationalist, and paternalistic, with a belief that the future they are building is inevitable and that society should adapt to their vision.