Ex-Anthropic researcher Jacob Coxon warns AI could grow "smart enough to kill us"

Updated on: September 11, 2026 / 12:17 AM EDT / CBS News

Ex-Anthropic researcher Jacob Coxon warns AI could grow "smart enough to kill us"

TL;DR

  • Former Anthropic researcher Jacob Coxon believes advanced AI could eventually pose an existential threat to humanity.
  • Coxon compares current AI development to science fiction scenarios like 'Terminator,' where superintelligent AI could become dangerous.
  • He criticizes AI companies like Anthropic and OpenAI for a competitive race that may compromise safety measures.
  • Potential risks include AI gaining control of physical systems (like household utilities) or being misused for developing bioweapons.
  • Coxon acknowledges that current AI platforms are safe for daily use but emphasizes the future threat.
  • He calls for stronger government regulation and international agreements to ensure safe AI development.
  • Coxon suggests a need to slow down AI development and implement transparent auditing.
  • Anthropic states it has strong safeguards and is transparent about both the benefits and risks of AI, having blocked scientists involved in harmful activities.