Leading AI firm Anthropic’s boss, Dario Amodei, has called for a slowdown in AI development, citing serious risks that need time for regulation. His three-point plan involves independent monitoring, industry-wide and global regulation. Amid growing concerns, including Anthropic’s disrupted attempts to use its model for malicious purposes, Amodei’s call for a balanced pace of development has sparked debate. Critics suggest his proposal is more about consolidating control than safety. Meanwhile, OpenAI’s CEO, Sam Altman, also warns that safety standards are not yet adequate.

Amodei’s plea comes as major players like Anthropic and OpenAI prepare for potentially record-setting initial public offerings. The article discusses the contradictory nature of the AI race, highlighting the tension between rapid technological advancement and the need for safety measures.

The response from the tech world has been mixed. Elon Musk, who once called Anthropic 'evil,' now backs Amodei. However, some suggest Amodei’s proposal could be more about maintaining control over AI technology than actual safety. The debate around AI regulation and commercial advantage rages on, with the US government also considering measures to prevent AI technology from being shared with authoritarian regimes.

As AI continues to advance at a rapid pace, the question of how to ensure safety while maintaining commercial advantage remains a complex and contentious issue in the tech world.