Home / Technology / Humane Tech Cuts Staff Amid AI Pivot
Humane Tech Cuts Staff Amid AI Pivot
8 Oct
Summary
- Center for Humane Technology laid off about half of its staff.
- The organization is ending policy research and litigation work.
- Focus shifts to founder-led projects and AI safety concerns.
The Center for Humane Technology (CHT), co-founded by former Google product manager Tristan Harris, has undergone significant restructuring, with about half of its 16 non-founder employees being laid off. This decision marks an end to its policy research and litigation work, redirecting focus towards "founder-led" projects, including public education and targeted briefings.
The organization's board cited the need to concentrate strategy on addressing accelerated AI risks. Functions like litigation support and AI tool evaluation will be eliminated. This shift follows recent courtroom victories for CHT, which had alleged that social media platforms were designed to be addictive, particularly for children.
This pivot emphasizes initiatives spearheaded by its founders, building on their success in reaching broad audiences and influencing decision-makers. The urgency of AI risks is a primary driver for this focused approach. CHT has been actively involved in advocating for AI safety, including a petition to pause AI development and organizing congressional hearings.
Founded in 2017, CHT aims to shape AI policy amidst a competitive landscape of nonprofits. Its funding, derived from wealthy families and foundations, supports its annual budget of approximately $6 million. The organization's new direction prioritizes founder-led efforts in response to escalating AI concerns.
