OpenAI Names Microsoft
Former CEO Sam Altman was fired on Friday by OpenAI, followed by the appointment of interim CEO Mira Murati. The AI company’s board then offered the role to Twitch co-founder Emmett Shear, who accepted. He stated on Twitter that he felt it was his duty to help OpenAI, given the company’s importance. In response to Shear’s appointment, controversial past tweets about women’s rape fantasies and other contentious topics have resurfaced.
Who Is Emmett Shear?
Emmett Shear, one of Twitch’s co-founders, has joined OpenAI and has been labeled a “decel” and “AI doomer” by critics due to his public expression about AI’s potential negative consequences. Shear has expressed a desire to slow down AI’s development and raised concerns about the rapidly evolving AI space, putting him at odds with the restraint required in the industry.
Controversy at Twitch
During Shear’s tenure at Twitch, accusations of failing to address incidents of sexual harassment and abuse within the company led to Twitch losing touch with its community and mismanaging communication with employees. The departure of over 300 employees in 2021 is attributed partly to the company’s direction under Shear’s leadership and cost-cutting measures.
Hot Take
Despite his controversial past at Twitch and expressing concern about the rapid development of AI, Shear’s opinions may significantly impact OpenAI’s future direction and operations.