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OpenAI's founders contested DeepMind's AGI ambitions
Founders aimed to prevent concentration of power with AGI according to former researcher Kokotajlo.

Daniel Kokotajlo claims OpenAI was created to counter DeepMind's AGI ambitions.
Founders of OpenAI aimed to check Google's DeepMind plans
Daniel Kokotajlo, a former researcher at OpenAI, recently claimed that Elon Musk, Sam Altman, and Ilya Sutskever started OpenAI to stop Google DeepMind CEO Demis Hassabis from concentrating power with artificial general intelligence (AGI). Kokotajlo suggests that Hassabis had plans to develop AGI quickly, using Google's resources, but distrust led to the formation of OpenAI. The executives feared Hassabis might become a 'dictator' with AGI. This shift has caused many original OpenAI members to leave, citing safety concerns over prioritizing rapid development of AI products like AGI.
Key Takeaways
"They wanted to create OpenAI to be this countervailing force that could do it right and distribute it to everybody."
Kokotajlo explains the founding motivation behind OpenAI in contrast to DeepMind's approach.
"Demis' original plan to build AGI safely collapsed under mistrust."
This statement by Kokotajlo highlights the distrust that drove the emergence of OpenAI.
"OpenAI is confident that it is well-equipped with technical talent to sort out alignment and safety issues compared to its rivals."
Kokotajlo emphasizes OpenAI's belief in its capability amidst competition.
"The majority of founding members cited safety concerns over prioritizing shiny products like AGI."
This reflects the internal tensions and shifts in priorities within OpenAI.
The narrative surrounding the development of AGI is becoming increasingly complex. OpenAI, once a collaborative effort, has transformed into a battleground for trust and innovation. Founders creating a 'countervailing force' highlights a significant concern over the ethical management of powerful technologies. As competition intensifies, it raises questions about the role of trust in technological advancement and the potential risks of unchecked power in AI.
Highlights
- Creating balance in AI power is essential for the future.
- Trust is the foundation of responsible AI development.
- AGI should not be a weapon in a corporate race.
- Ethics must guide us in the AI landscape.
Concerns over power concentration in AI
The formation of OpenAI stems from significant fears about the balance of power in AI development, particularly related to Demis Hassabis's leadership at DeepMind. This raises issues about competition, ethics, and corporate responsibility in technology.
The ongoing dynamics in AI development could reshape the industry's landscape.
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