OpenAI chief executive Sam Altman has said the public is “right to be afraid” of artificial intelligence, while arguing that people should also trust the companies developing the technology.
His comments come as fears grow about the potential dangers AI could pose to humanity. The concerns have prompted discussion among technology leaders about how quickly the field should advance and what safeguards may be needed.
Altman and other technology chief executives have said there are incentives to limit progress in artificial intelligence. Their position reflects a tension within the industry: companies are pursuing increasingly advanced systems while recognising that unchecked development could carry serious risks.
The remarks place responsibility on AI firms to act carefully as the technology continues to develop. At the same time, Altman’s comments acknowledge that public concern is not misplaced, suggesting that fear of AI should be recognised rather than dismissed.
The material available does not set out specific measures proposed by the technology leaders, nor does it provide details of any particular AI system or incident. It indicates that the debate remains focused on balancing technological progress with the risks that advanced artificial intelligence may create.
