At the heart of this narrative lies a profound analogy - the co-founders of OpenAI casting their creation as the One Ring, a force to be carried by a chosen guardian. Put simply, the co-founders wanted OpenAI to be their Frodo, shouldering the responsibility of a powerful entity that could sway the course of humanity.
The parallels with Tolkien's epic are striking, as the fellowship of OpenAI mirrors the "fellowship of the ring," united against the seductive allure of personal gain. However, as our story unfolds, we delve into the complexities of the real world, where choices are not as straightforward as they seem in fiction.
The introduction of Ilya as a pivotal figure in the plot sheds light on the internal struggles within OpenAI. In the quest for ethical AI development, the fellowship faces a dilemma akin to a "super-power company dilemma." The resources required for OpenAI's growth, primarily the computing power fueling their groundbreaking models, come with a capital-hungry price tag. The creation of OpenAI Global LLC, a for-profit subsidiary, becomes a game-changer, aligning OpenAI's interests with venture funds and investors, steering the organization towards a path that strays from its original non-profit ethos.
The tension within OpenAI, epitomized by the tussle between Ilya and Sam, reflects the broader question of whether to be for-profit or not. The strife, hinted at in the Q* Model Breakthrough incident, is not just about a singular mistake but a symptom of a deeper conflict within the organization. The departure of key figures like Elon Musk and the founding of Anthropic underscore the gravity of the situation, echoing the dilemma faced by Frodo and the fellowship.