Sam Altman, the CEO of OpenAI, has sparked controversy with a statement suggesting that the energy consumed by AI technology, such as ChatGPT, is less than what is required to grow a human. This remark came in response to criticisms regarding the environmental impact of AI, particularly concerning water consumption for each query processed by the models. Altman dismissed these critiques as 'totally fake,' asserting that critics overlook the significant energy usage associated with human existence itself.

The backlash was swift, with critics labeling Altman as 'sickeningly evil' and 'anti-human,' expressing concern over the implications of equating AI technology with human life. By making such comparisons, many argue that Altman downplays the very human experience and the ethical considerations that should accompany discussions about AI development and its consequences on society and the environment. Commentators have emphasized the need for a clearer distinction between technological and biological energy consumption.

The remarks were made during an event hosted by The Indian Express, highlighting the growing scrutiny and ethical debates surrounding artificial intelligence. As AI continues to evolve and integrate into various sectors, discussions about its environmental impact and the responsibility of tech leaders like Altman are becoming increasingly relevant. The incident reflects a broader concern about how humanity and technology should coexist, particularly in the face of burgeoning AI capabilities and their repercussions on natural resources and ethical standards.