OpenAI, the renowned artificial intelligence research lab, has recently established a Safety and Security Committee, led by Sam Altman, following a period of internal turmoil. The move comes after concerns were raised regarding the potential risks associated with OpenAI’s advanced technology.
The company announced in a blog post that the Safety and Security Committee, comprising three board members and six employees, will work towards ensuring the responsible development and deployment of AI products. This decision follows a review by the full board, with a commitment to sharing updates on adopted recommendations in a manner that prioritizes safety and security.
The heightened worries surrounding OpenAI’s technology were exacerbated when CEO Sam Altman faced a temporary ousting due to clashes with co-founder and chief scientist Ilya Sutskever over the pace of AI product development. This dispute led to the departure of Sutskever and key team member Jan Leike, who were instrumental in managing OpenAI’s superalignment team dedicated to addressing long-term AI threats.
Furthermore, Jan Leike expressed struggles faced by his division in securing adequate computing resources within the organization. To address these challenges and foster a culture of safety and security, the new committee will play a crucial role in guiding OpenAI’s strategic decisions and initiatives.
The committee members, including prominent figures like Bret Taylor, Adam D’Angelo, and Nicole Seligman, aim to bring diverse perspectives and expertise to the table. Additionally, external experts such as Rob Joyce and John Carlin will be consulted to provide valuable insights from their respective backgrounds in national security and law enforcement.
With a focus on enhancing safety measures and mitigating potential risks, OpenAI is taking proactive steps to ensure responsible AI development and governance. By prioritizing the well-being of stakeholders and the broader community, the company is demonstrating its commitment to ethical practices and transparency in the field of artificial intelligence.
