How the bad science of AI doomerism is good for big business
Growing concerns about AI existential risk are fueled by resignations from top researchers who claim safety is being neglected, yet these fears lack scientific grounding. Critics argue that the “doomer” narrative serves corporate interests by enabling self-regulation, attracting investment, and diverting focus from urgent harms such as surveillance, labor exploitation, and environmental damage, while public policy remains misdirected by speculative anxieties.
The hype works because the warnings aren't dissuading investors from putting their money into AI, says Widder, the professor at the University of Texas in Austin. "I think they're hearing that and going, 'Wow, these seem really powerful. Maybe I should consider this investment.'"
Which of course sells particularly well to the Military mindset. "Think of how many people it can KILL! I want one of those!"
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