In 2023, artificial intelligence became a prevalent household topic, largely attributed to Sam Altman, the CEO of OpenAI, who was named TIME’s "CEO of the Year." Altman candidly discussed his sudden removal and reinstatement at OpenAI in November, emphasizing the learning experience for both him and the company. Despite the personal pain, Altman believes the ordeal strengthened OpenAI, showcasing the team's unity amid uncertainty.
Reflecting on the experience, Altman stressed the necessity for changes in governance as OpenAI progresses toward artificial general intelligence (AGI). Acknowledging the need for democratization and improved interaction with the world, Altman expressed the company's commitment to enhancing its governance structure.
Altman highlighted AGI's immense potential, predicting it to be the most powerful technology humanity has created. He emphasized the transformative impact of AGI in democratizing access to information globally, envisioning a world where intelligence becomes more accessible and equal.
However, Altman acknowledged the challenges and downsides associated with powerful technologies like AGI. Notably, he expressed concerns about AI's potential influence on democracies, especially in the context of the upcoming 2024 elections. AI-driven disinformation could become more personalized and persuasive, posing a significant risk to the democratic process.
Despite these challenges, Altman remained optimistic about the positive impact of AI, emphasizing responsible deployment and safety. OpenAI's mission, according to Altman, is to ensure that AI is in the hands of people responsibly. He believes that, if executed safely, AI has the potential to contribute to a world that becomes more abundant and better each year.
Looking ahead, Altman predicted that 2024 would witness even more advancements in AI, leading to an unbelievably better world by the end of the decade. However, he acknowledged the unpredictability of technology and the potential for unforeseen developments. The interview was part of TIME's "A Year in TIME" event, sponsored by American Family Insurance, The Macallan, and Smartsheet.
