David Sacks, a key advisor on technology to former President Trump, spoke to CBS News about the ongoing debate surrounding artificial intelligence (AI). Sacks emphasized that fears regarding AI’s threat to humanity are exaggerated.
Sacks stated, “I think this is becoming a panic,” expressing concerns about political actors amplifying fear during election season. He urged for a rational examination of the issue.
These comments were made amid increasing worries that advanced AI platforms could cause significant harm. Jacob Coxon, a former researcher at Anthropic, recently warned that companies like Anthropic and OpenAI are risking lives by developing self-improving “superintelligence.”
In an interview, Sacks stressed that technology companies themselves should ensure AI safety. “First and foremost, it is on them to make their products safe,” he said. He insisted that AI companies should take responsibility and should not frighten the public unnecessarily.
“What they should not be doing is making the public afraid,” added Sacks, who served as co-chair of an advisory council under Mr. Trump. He stepped down from his AI and cryptocurrency position in May.
Sacks argued against the necessity of government intervention in AI safety and questioned Amodei’s statements. “If you can’t control it, then don’t do it,” he declared.
Despite risks, Sacks remains optimistic about managing them and wishes to continue AI development safely.
Sacks, a venture capitalist, has invested in major tech companies such as Airbnb, SpaceX, and Facebook.
Strategic Concerns with AI
Amodei, Sam Altman from OpenAI, and other industry leaders have suggested slowing AI development due to possible dangers. They fear that advancing technology may pose a severe threat within one to ten years.
However, not everyone agrees with pausing AI development; President Trump argued against stricter regulations. Sacks aligned with this viewpoint, stating that halting development could let China surpass the U.S. in AI capabilities.
Sacks warned, “If we just pause all development, they will race ahead,” noting China’s progress in AI.