Sam Altman: People are right to be anxious about AI

Watch on YouTube ↗  |  June 01, 2026 at 19:18  |  5:47  |  CNBC
Speakers
Sam Altman — CEO, OpenAI

Summary

Sam Altman discusses the societal implications of AI, emphasizing that while the technology will bring huge benefits, people are right to be anxious about job displacement and loss of agency. He argues that the industry has failed to articulate how humans will remain in control. He also touches on the competition with China and the need for global coordination on safety.

  • Altman acknowledges that AI is one of the biggest technological shifts in history.
  • He says people are right to be anxious about job displacement and economic future.
  • He criticizes other AI leaders for predicting massive job losses without a clear human role.
  • Altman emphasizes that OpenAI's goal is to democratize power, wealth, and opportunity.
  • He compares the pace of AI improvement to the iPhone, where people expect steady progress.
  • He warns that the race with China can be both beneficial and dangerous.
  • Altman suggests global coordination on AI safety, similar to the IAEA for nuclear energy.
  • No specific investment ideas or tradable assets are mentioned.
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