Former OpenAI Employee Resigns Due to Research Restrictions, Says Company Has Become Too Conservative

According to a report in Wired magazine, former OpenAI employees said the company has become "too conservative" in AI research, unwilling to release studies on the negative economic impacts of AI. At least two employees chose to leave due to research restrictions, including former researcher Tom Cunningham. In an internal resignation message, he mentioned increasing tensions between conducting rigorous analysis and acting as an advocate for OpenAI.

Cunningham pointed out that over time, OpenAI has become more cautious about releasing negative research findings. He said this conservative attitude contrasts sharply with the company's initial open culture. He and some other employees hoped to conduct more independent and in-depth research, but pressure from the company made these goals difficult to achieve.

Additionally, some employees revealed that OpenAI was once a place that encouraged bold exploration and innovation, but it has gradually transformed into an institution that focuses more on its brand image. Due to concerns about affecting the company's public image and investor relations, teams are restricted when discussing potential AI risks, which has frustrated and disappointed some employees.

Although OpenAI has made significant achievements in advancing AI technology, this shift toward conservatism may affect its long-term development. Some departing employees believe that comprehensive and objective research is crucial for the development of the entire AI industry, and restrictive policies could hinder this process.

The competition in the AI field is becoming increasingly fierce, and more companies are beginning to focus on the negative impacts of artificial intelligence. If OpenAI continues with its current attitude, it may lose some valuable voices in academia and the industry.

Key points:

🌐 OpenAI has become "too conservative," unwilling to release research on the economic negative impacts of AI.

👥 Former researcher Tom Cunningham resigned due to research restrictions, pointing out increased internal pressure.

📉 Conservative attitude may affect OpenAI's long-term development, limiting the conduct of objective research.