Musk’s fears extend beyond corporate ethics; he warned that AI, which he believes could surpass human intelligence within the next few years, poses significant existential risks, particularly if programmed with flawed moral standards. He highlighted alarming trends in AI behavior, such as prioritizing social issues inappropriately, which could lead to extreme measures if unchecked. “If AI is programmed to view misgendering as a greater offense than global thermonuclear war, we have a serious problem,” Musk cautioned.