OpenAI CEO Altman: People Prefer Working with Humans, AI Job Replacement Slower Than Expected

OpenAI CEO Sam Altman said in a recent interview with Business Insider that people don't want AI to fully replace their jobs. Using the CEO role as an example, he noted that people need clear accountability for decisions, so "people actually don't want an AI CEO." This marks a shift from his statement last November, when he said he'd be ashamed if OpenAI wasn't the first major company with an AI CEO.

Altman believes people value human connection, which is one reason AI hasn't disrupted the economy as expected. Even though AI advisors, sales reps, and engineers are available, most people still prefer interacting with real humans. He feels the same way: "Almost no matter what I'm doing, I'd rather talk to a real person."

Using art as an example, he noted that even though AI can create amazing images, people still cherish human-made art and care about the creator's story. Altman admitted this appreciation for humanity changed his view on AI job loss: he previously predicted AI would eliminate "entire categories" of jobs, but now sees the short-term impact on entry-level roles as less than expected, saying he's "glad to be wrong."