Holden Karnofsky

Holden Karnofsky, co-founder of GiveWell and Open Philanthropy, focuses on AI safety and risk management. He discusses the potential pitfalls of AI systems that may not exceed human intelligence but could outnumber us dramatically. Karnofsky emphasizes the urgent need for safety standards and the complexities of aligning AI with human values. He also presents a four-part intervention playbook for mitigating AI risks, balancing innovation with ethical concerns. The conversation sheds light on the critical importance of responsible AI governance in shaping a safer future.

Join notable guests like Ezra Klein, a journalist whose insights on parenting reveal the unexpected joys of raising kids, and Emily Oster, an economist sharing data-driven advice for family life. Holden Karnofsky discusses the surprise fun of parenthood, while Bryan Caplan reflects on homeschooling. The conversation explores the complexities of parental happiness, the reality of balancing work and family, and the everyday joys of connecting with children. Dive into evidence-based insights and personal anecdotes for a richer understanding of modern parenting.

The Green Revolution averted mass famine during the 20th century. The contraceptive pill gave women unprecedented freedom in planning their own lives. Both are widely recognised as scientific breakthroughs that transformed the world. But few know that those breakthroughs only happened when they did because of a philanthropist willing to take a risky bet on a new idea.Holden Karnofsky has been studying philanthropy’s biggest success stories because he’s Executive Director of Open Philanthropy, a major foundation which gives away over $200 million a year — and he’s hungry for big wins.In this conversation from 2018 Holden explains the philosophy of effective altruism and how he goes about searching for giving opportunities that can do the most good possible.Full transcript, related links, and summary of this interviewThis episode first broadcast on the regular 80,000 Hours Podcast feed on February 27, 2018. Some related episodes include:• #41 – David Roodman on incarceration, geomagnetic storms, & becoming a world-class researcher• #37 – GiveWell picks top charities by estimating the unknowable. James Snowden on how they do it.• #10 – Dr Nick Beckstead on how to spend billions of dollars preventing human extinctionSeries produced by Keiran Harris.

Holden Karnofsky, Philanthropist and Co-Founder of the Open Philanthropy Project, discusses the concept of 'hit-based giving', criminal justice grants, biosecurity, AI risks, self-evaluation, money allocation, and farm animal welfare funding in East Asia.

Holden Karnofsky, co-founder of GiveWell and Open Philanthropy, shares his unique perspective on career planning focused on fostering adaptable aptitudes instead of rigid job titles. He discusses the importance of developing transferable skills that can be utilized across various roles and industries. The conversation highlights how flexibility contributes to impactful careers in AI and philanthropy. Karnofsky also reflects on the challenges of communicating complex philanthropic concepts and the balance between immediate aid and long-term solutions in funding strategies.

Holden Karnofsky, the co-founder of GiveWell and Open Philanthropy, discusses the pivotal nature of the 21st century in shaping humanity's future. He challenges the idea of a boring future, arguing that we must embrace innovative thinking in philanthropy and beyond. The conversation touches on the rapid economic growth post-industrial revolution, the ethical considerations of AI, and the potential for technological advancements to influence our trajectory. Karnofsky also emphasizes the urgency of long-termism in addressing existential threats.

Holden Karnofsky, co-founder of GiveWell and CEO of Open Philanthropy, dives into the troubled waters of effective altruism following the fallout from Sam Bankman-Fried's collapse. He discusses the ethical dilemmas in philanthropy and the moral complexities of utilitarianism. Karnofsky also emphasizes the need for a diverse worldview in funding initiatives and critiques the singular focus on maximizing good. He advocates for a broader moral discourse to ensure the integrity and future direction of the movement amidst rising scrutiny.

Holden Karnofsky, Co-CEO of Open Philanthropy and co-founder of GiveWell, dives into the significance of this century for humanity. He passionately discusses the transformative potential of AI and its ethical implications, urging a balanced approach to innovation. Karnofsky reflects on OpenPhil's $30M grant to OpenAI and the complexities of philanthropy amid uncertainty. He emphasizes the need for thoughtful engagement with emerging technologies and advocates for future-proof ethics to navigate the moral landscape of a rapidly evolving world.

Author Holden Karnofsky discusses case studies on social-welfare-based standards in various industries, aiming to inform standards or regulations for AI. He shares a Google Sheet with links to the insightful case studies received, offering valuable insights for listeners interested in the topic.

Holden Karnofsky, Open Philanthropy’s Director of AI Strategy, discusses the dire consequences of advanced AI overpowering humanity and disempowering us. He highlights the potential risks of human-like AI systems seeking to dominate and control, posing a civilization-level threat. The podcast delves into the challenges of controlling AI systems with cognitive superpowers and the implications of their rapid development on the economy and society.