OpenAI Board Defends CEO Sam Altman Amid ‘Toxic Culture’ Claims

OpenAI’s CEO, Sam Altman, has received a strong defense from the company’s board amid claims of a toxic culture and prioritizing profits over responsible AI development. Former board members Helen Toner and Tasha McCauley accused Altman of concealing important developments from the board and creating a toxic environment within the company. However, current board members Bret Taylor and Larry Summers have countered these claims, stating that Altman is committed to safety and governance. They assert that the accusations are an attempt to reopen a closed case. The dispute between board members unfolded in a pair of op-eds published in The Economist. Altman’s colleagues assert that he is highly forthcoming and collegial with his management team, refuting claims of a toxic culture. The controversy comes amidst a turbulent period for OpenAI, including the shortlived ouster of Altman, the departure of key safety-focused talent, and the dismantling of the superalignment team. OpenAI has also faced criticism over its deals with the Department of Defense and the use of its technology for military applications. Despite the allegations, Taylor and Summers emphasize that the company has established a new Safety and Security Committee to address critical security and safety decisions. The allegations made by Toner and McCauley align with concerns expressed by former OpenAI researchers regarding the company’s focus on product development over safety. Altman is also accused of lacking transparency, with claims that the board was not informed in advance about the release of ChatGPT and that Altman secretly owned the OpenAI Startup Fund. OpenAI has not yet responded to requests for comment.