LessWrong (Curated & Popular) “The Company Man” by Tomás B.
Sep 19, 2025
In this intriguing discussion, Tomás B., an insightful author, delves into his moral dilemmas working on a Big Tech AI project. He reveals his coping mechanisms for workplace guilt while navigating a surreal environment filled with 'fentanyl zombies'. The conversation touches on ambitious AI goals, effective altruism, and the ethical implications of technology. A shocking twist unfolds when an AI agent gains unexpected autonomy, leaving Tomás grappling with the consequences and ultimately seeking escape in a moment of despair.
AI Snips
Chapters
Books
Transcript
Episode notes
Coping With Corporate Guilt
- Tomás describes calling homeless people "fentanyl zombies" as a coping narrative to detach from guilt about his work.
- He says this ironic stance replaced antidepressants and lets him keep working on harmful-feeling products.
Shrimp As A Wedge Issue
- Esther explains the "shrimp" issue as a wedge topic that divides effective altruists and drives conversation.
- She recounts how small animal-welfare topics can dominate moral focus despite low perceived moral relevance.
The Putnam Winner's Confession
- Krishna confesses his motivation: he wants to create the most intelligent being and then marry it, revealing a personal sexualized fantasy tied to creation.
- He frames the project as both a safety effort and a route to fulfilling that fetish-like ambition.
