In a significant shift from earlier rhetoric, OpenAI CEO Sam Altman has expressed concerns about the dangers of attributing religious or mystical qualities to artificial intelligence. Altman described this tendency as a ‘real safety issue,’ highlighting the need for a grounded understanding of AI’s capabilities and limitations.
This warning comes in the wake of Anthropic’s recent meetings with religious thinkers and a statement from Pope Leo XIV addressing AI. Altman noted that while he previously spoke of creating ‘magic intelligence in the sky,’ such narratives can lead to misunderstandings about AI’s role and influence in society.
By urging caution against viewing AI through a lens of reverence, Altman aims to foster a more responsible discourse around technology. He emphasizes that AI should be treated as a tool, rather than a divine entity, to mitigate potential risks associated with its misuse.
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