Jeff Clune explains why he works on self-improving AI despite the risks
jeffclune · x · 2026-09-17
After his research and Recursive Superintelligence were covered by the New York Times, Jeff Clune — UBC professor and co-founder of Recursive Superintelligence — published an essay explaining why he works on self-improving AI.
Key points:
- He takes superintelligence risks extremely seriously: over a decade of deep thought, co-authored a Science paper calling for prioritizing AI safety, advised US/EU/Canadian governments, and supported safety nonprofits.
- He concluded the potential benefits are tremendous and outweigh the risks — the core rationale for founding Recursive Superintelligence.
- The essay doubles as a public defense and background for his new company's direction.
Related event: NYT Spotlights Recursive Self-Improvement AI Startups(4 posts)→
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