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OpenAI Faces Scrutiny Over Economic Research as Departures Highlight Publishing Limits

OpenAI says its economists still publish rigorous, policy-relevant analysis despite criticism.

Overview

  • WIRED reported that OpenAI has grown more guarded about releasing studies that underscore potential economic downsides of AI, citing four people familiar with the matter.
  • At least two members of the company’s economic research team resigned in recent months, including Tom Cunningham, who left in September after warning internally about a tilt toward advocacy.
  • In a memo following Cunningham’s exit, chief strategy officer Jason Kwon wrote that the company should not only identify problems with AI but also build solutions.
  • OpenAI stated that its economic research has expanded under chief economist Aaron Chatterji and continues to provide rigorous analysis for the public and policymakers.
  • The team reports to chief global affairs officer Chris Lehane, and a recent OpenAI report highlighted enterprise users’ claims of saving 40 to 60 minutes per day through its tools.