Another Researcher from OpenAI Resigns Over AI Ethics Concerns

Caitlin Kalinowski, a senior leader in the robotics division at OpenAI, has resigned from the company, citing ethical concerns around the potential use of artificial intelligence in national security and surveillance.

In a social media post announcing her departure, Kalinowski said the decision was difficult but guided by her personal principles.

“I resigned from OpenAI. I care deeply about the Robotics team and the work we built together. This wasn’t an easy call,” she wrote. “AI has an important role in national security. But surveillance of Americans without judicial oversight and lethal autonomy without human authorization are lines that deserved more deliberation than they got.”

Kalinowski emphasised that her decision was not directed at individuals within the company. “This was about principle, not people. I have deep respect for Sam and the team, and I’m proud of what we built together,” she added, referring to OpenAI CEO Sam Altman.

Her departure highlights growing debate within the AI industry about the role of advanced technologies in defense, surveillance and autonomous systems, particularly as governments explore using AI in security operations.

Previously, another OpenAI researcher, Zoë Hitzig, also stepped down, citing concerns about the potential introduction of advertising in ChatGPT. Hitzig warned that monetisation through ads could create incentives that undermine user trust, particularly as many users share highly personal information with the chatbot.