AI is 'real and mysterious creature' now: Anthropic co-founder

Technology Oct 19, 2025

Jack Clark, co-founder of Anthropic, is sounding the alarm on how unpredictable AI has become.

In October 2025, he said, "The bigger and more complicated you make these systems, the more they seem to display awareness that they are things."

He called today's AI a "real and mysterious creature," not just a simple machine.

Clark wants everyone involved in AI discussions

Clark wants everyone—not just techies—to pay attention to how AI could impact jobs, privacy, and even security.

He's pushed for more transparency and public involvement in shaping the rules around AI.

He has testified before Congress that it's crucial for governments to make sure AI lines up with human values.

Clark's background and concerns about AI

Before co-founding Anthropic in 2021, Clark worked at OpenAI and as a tech journalist.

He's known for questioning whether rapid advances in AI are always safe or wise.

Like other experts, he worries that if we don't guide AI carefully now, we might face serious problems down the line.

Clark warns against future AIs creating their own successors

Clark also criticizes treating AI only as an economic tool—he says that misses the bigger risks.

He warns that future AIs could even start creating their own successors if left unchecked.

For him, open discussion and smart policies are key before things get out of hand.