AI as a Scapegoat: OpenAI CEO Sam Altman Slams Companies for Blaming Tech for Layoffs

KUALA LUMPUR – OpenAI CEO Sam Altman has raised concerns over a growing trend where corporations use Artificial Intelligence (AI) as a convenient excuse for mass layoffs.

Speaking at the AI Impact Summit in New Delhi, Altman criticized companies for turning AI into a “scapegoat.” He argued that many workforce reductions currently being attributed to automation would have likely occurred anyway due to broader economic conditions and business restructuring.

Economics Over Automation

Altman clarified that while AI is often blamed publicly, the primary drivers for these layoffs are frequently related to financial performance and strategic realignments. By pointing to AI, companies may be attempting to shift the narrative away from internal management decisions or economic downturns.

The Future of Work

Despite his criticism, Altman acknowledged that AI will undeniably impact the job market. He admitted that while some roles will face significant disruption, the technology—much like past technological revolutions—is expected to create entirely new categories of employment and enhance productivity in various sectors over the coming years.

Altman concluded by emphasizing that the integration of AI should be viewed as an evolution of work rather than a simple replacement for human labor.