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OpenAI has deleted the word 'safely' from its mission

theconversation.com

February 13, 2026

8 min read

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69/100

Summary

OpenAI has removed the word "safely" from its mission statement, which previously emphasized building AI that benefits humanity without the need for financial returns. The change reflects a shift in focus that may prioritize shareholder interests over societal benefits.

Key Takeaways

OpenAI removed the word "safely" from its mission statement, indicating a shift in focus towards profit generation rather than solely benefiting humanity.
OpenAI transitioned from a nonprofit organization to a for-profit business model, creating a structure that includes both a nonprofit foundation and a for-profit public benefit corporation.
The company is currently facing multiple lawsuits related to product safety, including allegations of psychological manipulation and negligence.
Microsoft has invested over $13 billion in OpenAI, with a portion of future profits promised in exchange for its investment, but without a seat on the nonprofit board.

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Community Sentiment

Negative

Positives

The removal of 'safely' from OpenAI's mission may reflect a more honest approach, acknowledging the complexities of AI ethics without the pretense of absolute safety.

Concerns

The lack of emphasis on safety in AI development raises significant concerns about potential harm, especially in sensitive applications like mental health support.
Business motivations often overshadow safety considerations, suggesting that profit may take precedence over ethical AI deployment, which could endanger users.