Sam Altman says Elon Musk is a ‘bully’ who only respects people who punch him back
OpenAI CEO Sam Altman described Elon Musk as a 'bully' in a recent interview, suggesting that standing up to him is necessary for productive interaction. Despite their public feud and legal battles, Altman expressed a willingness to continue working with Musk on AI safety initiatives.
Why it matters
The personal conflict between two of the most influential figures in AI highlights the volatile nature of leadership in the industry as companies attempt to coordinate on safety standards.
OpenAI CEO Sam Altman Heather Diehl/Getty Images OpenAI CEO Sam Altman said a little drama may grease the gears for talks with Elon Musk. "I think once in a while you've got to punch a bully back in the nose," Altman told Vanity Fair. Altman said that Musk "only respects people" who take such an approach. Sam Altman says you need to accept some level of drama if you want him and Elon Musk to work together. "I think once in a while you've got to punch a bully back in the nose," Altman told Vanity Fair during a wide-ranging interview. "And I also think Elon, like many bullies, only respects people who do." Altman and Musk had a famous falling-out that has since been recounted and is at the center of multiple legal battles.
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