OpenAI Co-Founder Plans Doomsday Bunker for AI Threat

Coin WorldTuesday, May 20, 2025 7:57 am ET
1min read

Ilya Sutskever, the former chief scientist of OpenAI, has reportedly planned for a doomsday bunker in anticipation of the day when machines surpass human intelligence. This

comes as Sutskever, who co-founded OpenAI, was reportedly advising his staff around June 2023 about the need for protection when artificial general intelligence (AGI) is achieved. refers to the hypothetical ability of an intelligent agent to understand, learn, and apply knowledge across a wide range of tasks at a level equal to or beyond human capabilities.

Sutskever's concerns are rooted in the potential risks associated with AGI. As machines become smarter, there is a growing fear that they could pose existential threats to humanity. This fear is not unfounded, as AGI could potentially outperform humans in critical areas such as decision-making, problem-solving, and strategic planning. The implications of such a scenario are profound, as it could lead to a loss of human control over technology, with potentially catastrophic consequences.

The planning for a doomsday bunker by Sutskever underscores the seriousness with which he views the potential risks of AGI. A doomsday bunker is a fortified shelter designed to protect its occupants from catastrophic events, such as nuclear war or natural disasters. In this context, it serves as a contingency plan in case AGI develops in an uncontrolled manner, posing an immediate threat to human survival.

Sutskever's actions highlight the need for responsible development and regulation of AI. As AI continues to advance at a rapid pace, it is crucial to ensure that its development is guided by ethical considerations and safety measures. This includes not only technical safeguards but also legal and regulatory frameworks that can mitigate the risks associated with AGI.

The planning for a doomsday bunker by Sutskever also raises questions about the preparedness of society for the potential risks of AGI. While some experts are optimistic about the benefits of AGI, others are more cautious, emphasizing the need for proactive measures to address its potential dangers. Sutskever's actions suggest that even those at the forefront of AI development are aware of the risks and are taking steps to protect themselves and their colleagues.

In conclusion, Ilya Sutskever's planning for a doomsday bunker in anticipation of the day when machines become smarter than humans underscores the seriousness of the potential risks associated with AGI. It highlights the need for responsible development and regulation of AI, as well as the importance of preparedness for the potential dangers of AGI. As AI continues to advance, it is crucial to ensure that its development is guided by ethical considerations and safety measures, to mitigate the risks and maximize the benefits for humanity.