A Tale of Two Sams: Effective Altruism’s Threat to the Security of Emerging Technology

Authors

Mackenzie Young, Southern Methodist University, Dedman School of LawFollow

Abstract

Since the onset of scientific innovation, the character and charisma of the inventors and scientists behind emerging technologies have been a centerpiece of focus. However, in light of the driving forces behind innovation—especially the global need to “get ahead” of competitors—few are willing to inquire into the sincerity of held belief. From the ouster of Sam Altman as CEO of OpenAI to the criminal conviction of cryptocurrency mogul Sam Bankman-Fried, the philosophy of “effective altruism” has taken over the minds, hearts, and pocketbooks of Silicon Valley.

This Comment evaluates the origins of the Effective Altruism movement and argues that its underpinning philosophies not only spurred the creation of nuclear weapons but threaten the security of the next world-changing technologies: cryptocurrency and generative artificial intelligence. It shows that the proper functioning of scientific and technological innovation cannot rely on the singular, unexamined philosophy of one sole creator, inventor, or scientist.

Recommended Citation

Mackenzie Young, A Tale of Two Sams: Effective Altruism’s Threat to the Security of Emerging Technology, 27 SMU Sci. & Tech. L. Rev. 313 (2024)