Anthropic investor Lonsdale says AI firms stoking fear to sway policy
PLTR•Joe Lonsdale, an investor in Anthropic and Palantir co-founder, said some AI firms are using warnings about existential risks to influence policy and could entrench their market power. He called AI safety a real concern but cautioned against regulation driven by fear.
1. AI policy concerns
Lonsdale criticized efforts by people close to Anthropic and OpenAI to fund groups advocating stronger AI regulation, saying they could let a small number of leading firms shape industry rules and entrench their market power. “Safety is a real thing, but fear and regulation — we've got to be really careful how we respond to those things,” he said at an event in Austin.
2. Praise for Anthropic
Lonsdale, a small investor in Anthropic, praised CEO Dario Amodei and said the company had assembled exceptional talent and emerged as a leader in the AI race. He said he was proud to be an investor.
3. Potential defense deals
Lonsdale said companies he has backed are likely to buy some Ukrainian defense firms, citing opportunities for deeper partnerships and acquisitions. He also said AI-powered autonomous weapons are the future of warfare, while accountability must remain with military leaders.
