Why OpenAI’s CEO Is Scared of AI—And Why You Should Care

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5 Key Takeaways

• OpenAI CEO Sam Altman admits he is sometimes scared to use certain AI tools due to data privacy concerns.
• Altman highlights the intense competition among AI companies and warns that responsible actors could lose control if they move too slowly.
• He acknowledges uncertainty about the future of humanity in a world increasingly shaped by AI.
• Altman addresses fears of job displacement, noting that AI could make some jobs obsolete but also create opportunities for more creative and interpersonal pursuits.
• He cautions that while AI can help people rethink their contributions to society, the transition may be difficult for those who lose their jobs in the short term.

OpenAI’s Sam Altman Admits He’s Scared of AI—Here’s Why That Matters
When you think of the people leading the charge in artificial intelligence, you probably imagine them as fearless tech wizards. But even Sam Altman, the CEO of OpenAI—the company behind ChatGPT—has his worries. In a recent podcast interview, Altman opened up about his own fears and uncertainties when it comes to using AI, and his thoughts are worth paying attention to.
Even the Experts Are Cautious
Altman admitted that he sometimes feels scared to use certain AI tools, especially when it comes to sharing personal information. “I get scared sometimes to use certain AI stuff, because I don’t know how much personal information I want to put in, because I don’t know who’s going to have it,” he said. If the head of one of the world’s top AI companies is worried about privacy, it’s a sign that we should all be careful about what we share online.
A Race with High Stakes
The world of AI is moving incredibly fast, and Altman compared the competition among AI companies to an “intense race.” It’s not just about making money—these companies are building tools that could shape society for generations. Altman pointed out that if OpenAI doesn’t move quickly, someone else will, and that could mean the future of AI ends up in the hands of people who might not care as much about its impact on society.
What About Our Jobs?
One of the biggest fears people have about AI is that it will take away jobs. Altman didn’t shy away from this topic. He admitted that the rise of AI could make some jobs obsolete, and that the transition could be tough for those affected. However, he also believes that AI could free people up to focus on more creative, philosophical, or social pursuits—things that make us uniquely human.
A Future Full of Questions
Altman was honest about how uncertain the future is. He said that, throughout history, humans have always found ways to put themselves at the center of the story, and he believes we’ll do the same in an AI-driven world. But he also warned that the changes ahead could be difficult, especially for those whose jobs are at risk.
The Bottom Line
If the CEO of OpenAI is cautious about using AI, maybe we should be too. As AI becomes a bigger part of our lives, it’s important to think carefully about how we use it, what we share, and how we prepare for the changes it will bring. The future is exciting—but it’s okay to admit it’s a little scary, too.

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