Anthropic Researcher Resigns, Warns AI Could End Humanity by 2030
A researcher at Anthropic, one of the world’s leading AI companies, has resigned in protest, warning that artificial intelligence could kill off humanity within the decade. The researcher, who previously worked at OpenAI, made the startling prediction in a series of social media posts on Tuesday. He said he left because both Anthropic and OpenAI were ignoring or, at best, mishandling the threat posed by advanced AI. “Neither company is acting responsibly,” he wrote, adding that he believes the risk of human extinction from AI is real and imminent.nnThe researcher stressed that he does not doubt the sincerity of leaders at both companies. He noted that executives at major AI labs have publicly expressed concerns about the pace of development and the need for stronger regulation. “But it’s important to recognise that these people are very sincere in what they’re saying,” he added, pointing out that the risks surrounding AI have been raised by the heads of several AI firms for years. Despite this, he argues that current efforts are insufficient. He says only two things can change the trajectory: heavy government intervention, or every major AI lab agreeing to slow down together.nnThe warning comes amid growing debate over the safety of increasingly powerful AI systems. The researcher’s concerns echo those of other experts who have warned that AI could soon surpass human intelligence. According to one forecast, such systems could emerge in late 2026 or early 2027, although that timeline remains uncertain. The researcher’s previous leadership of OpenAI’s Superalignment team—which was tasked with controlling advanced AI—indicated that managing this risk was central to his work. However, OpenAI subsequently dissolved Superalignment as a standalone team and distributed its remaining staff across other parts of the company, a move that some saw as a downgrade of safety efforts.nnThe resignation highlights a growing rift within the AI industry between those who prioritize rapid development and those who urge caution. While the researcher’s predictions are dire, they reflect a broader anxiety about the existential risks of AI. As AI systems become more capable, the call for robust safety measures and international cooperation is likely to intensify. Whether the industry will heed these warnings—or whether governments will step in—remains to be seen. For now, the researcher’s protest serves as a stark reminder of the high stakes
Shimanta Das 
