Open Thread 436

2026-06-02 · Source: Astral Codex Ten · Field: Technology & Digital — Artificial Intelligence & Machine Learning, Emerging Technologies & Innovation, AI Policy & Governance · Depth: Intermediate, quick

Summary

The weekly open thread features several updates and announcements. Discussions from a Frankfurt School post highlighted arguments against its influence on Derrida and postmodernism, alongside surprising alumni like Palantir founder Alex Karp and Hans Herman-Hoppe. A signal-boost for Alex Bores' Democratic primary campaign in NY-12 emphasizes his focus on safe AI, with claims that tech companies like OpenAI are attempting to suppress his efforts; a Q&A is scheduled for June 4. An update on the "Save Our Bacon Act" notes its failure in the House, with the fight moving to the Senate and an online meeting planned. The MATS research fellowship announced its Autumn 2026 cohort (Sep. 28 - Dec. 4) in Berkeley or London, offering a \$12.5k stipend, \$20k compute budget, and mentorship from organizations like Anthropic and OpenAI, with a June 7 application deadline. Eleos is also hiring research scientists in the San Francisco Bay Area.

Key takeaway

For AI professionals and students considering career paths or political engagement, this brief highlights active opportunities. If you are concerned about AI safety, consider supporting candidates like Alex Bores in NY-12, who advocates for robust AI safety laws despite opposition from companies like OpenAI. Additionally, explore fully funded research fellowships such as MATS, which offers specialized tracks in AI alignment, biosecurity, and field-building, with applications due June 7. Your involvement in these areas can directly influence AI's future direction.

Key insights

Diverse efforts are underway in AI governance, research, and political advocacy, often involving major tech players.

In practice

• Support political candidates advocating for AI safety.
• Explore AI alignment fellowships like MATS for career entry.

Topics

• AI Safety
• AI Governance
• AI Alignment
• Political Advocacy
• Research Fellowships
• Frankfurt School

Best for: Research Scientist, AI Scientist, Policy Maker, AI Student

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Editorial summary, takeaway, and curation by AIssential. Original article published by Astral Codex Ten.