Who will stop the AI threat?
The New York Times reported that Meta is using its AI data centers as experimental facilities to claim billions in federal research tax credits, a strategy flagged as legally risky by its own accountants. The savings reportedly grew from $700 million in 2023 to $3.9 billion in 2025.
John Casey, a columnist, questions whether AI leaders can be trusted to prioritize safety over profits, noting that companies rarely act in the public interest unless forced. OpenAI shelved its newest model due to safety concerns, while Anthropic's CEO warned that AI could direct a swarm of agents capable of taking over the internet within a year.
Pope Leo also acknowledged the validity of AI safety concerns. Casey argues that self-regulation is unlikely without government coordination, which is lacking, as seen in the underfunded and understaffed agencies like the FBI, Pentagon, and CDC.
He concludes that the threat of AI is real, but the response from both industry and government is inadequate, leaving humanity vulnerable.