Dramatic warnings from artificial intelligence researchers about the potential for AI to destroy humanity are facing skepticism from some executives and investors in Silicon Valley. The concerns were amplified following the resignation of Anthropic researcher Jacob Coxon, who stated that AI builders believe the technology could lead to human extinction and that they are "gambling with our lives."

Coxon, a 27-year-old who previously worked at OpenAI, joined a chorus of insiders from leading AI firms like Anthropic and OpenAI who have recently voiced alarm over AI safety. These high-profile resignations and public statements come at a time when both Anthropic and OpenAI are reportedly preparing for significant initial public offerings (IPOs).

Some in the tech sector suggest these stark pronouncements on AI dangers might be a strategic move to generate hype and signal the immense power of their products, thereby justifying high company valuations. Grindr CEO George Arison, for example, described the recent comments as indicative of an "anti-civilisational worldview" at Anthropic, calling them "dangerous."

Arison's skepticism highlights a growing divide in how the industry perceives these warnings. He indicated that Grindr had instructed some engineers to cease using Anthropic's technology due to the company's public statements. Arison posited that such warnings could be a tactic to "gin up more investor support" by claiming AI will "take over every industry and every job."

Anthropic, which was valued at $965 billion in its latest funding round, has seen its leadership, including CEO Dario Amodei, make statements that have drawn scrutiny. Amodei himself has warned that AI could eliminate half of entry-level white-collar jobs and "test who we are as a species."

In a recent essay, Amodei called for a slowdown in AI model development and advocated for global regulation, emphasizing the seriousness of the risks associated with AI. However, the timing of these warnings, coinciding with IPO preparations, has fueled speculation about their underlying motives.

Evan Hubinger, a team lead at Anthropic, echoed Coxon's sentiments, posting on X (formerly Twitter) that he "earnestly believe[s] AI could kill all humans!" and personally estimates a "10% chance within the next decade."

While Coxon explicitly stated his warnings were not a marketing ploy, the juxtaposition of existential dread with lucrative business prospects has left some observers questioning the sincerity and intent behind these public declarations of risk.