OpenAI #16: A History and a Proposal

2023-08-29 · Source: Don't Worry About the Vase · Field: Technology & Digital — Artificial Intelligence & Machine Learning, Emerging Technologies & Innovation, AI Industry & Corporate Strategy · Depth: Intermediate, extended

Summary

Anthropic has partnered with leading cybersecurity firms to patch systems against zero-day exploits identified by its new model, Claude Mythos. Meanwhile, OpenAI faces scrutiny across three fronts: a lengthy New Yorker article detailing Sam Altman's trustworthiness issues and OpenAI's historical controversies, a new policy proposal titled "Industrial Policy for the Intelligence Age: Ideas To Keep People First," and its acquisition of the media property TBPN. The New Yorker piece, an 18,000-word exposé, covers Altman's reaction to his firing, the "Battle of the Board," his disputes with Elon Musk and Dario Amodei, and the dissolution of OpenAI's "superalignment team." OpenAI's policy proposal is criticized as a PR stunt, offering generic solutions for superintelligence risks, while the TBPN acquisition raises significant concerns about editorial independence, despite contractual assurances.

Key takeaway

For CTOs and AI/ML Directors evaluating strategic partnerships or public policy engagement, carefully assess the track record of leadership and the sincerity of stated commitments. OpenAI's recent controversies, particularly regarding the "superalignment" team and the TBPN acquisition, highlight the risks of relying on unverified claims. Prioritize partners demonstrating consistent integrity and transparent resource allocation over those with a history of shifting narratives or unfulfilled promises, especially concerning AI safety and governance.

Key insights

OpenAI faces intense scrutiny over leadership integrity, policy sincerity, and media independence, contrasting with Anthropic's cybersecurity initiative.

Principles

• Trust is eroded by a pattern of deception and unfulfilled commitments.
• Policy proposals lacking concrete action are perceived as PR stunts.

In practice

• Scrutinize "superalignment" claims for actual resource allocation.
• Evaluate media acquisitions for genuine editorial independence.

Topics

• OpenAI Governance
• Sam Altman Leadership
• AI Safety
• Superalignment
• AI Industrial Policy

Best for: CTO, VP of Engineering/Data, Director of AI/ML, Tech Journalist, Investor, Policy Maker

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Editorial summary, takeaway, and curation by AIssential. Original article published by Don't Worry About the Vase.