Mechanize, founded by AI researcher Tamay Besiroglu, has sparked debate with its mission to automate every job using AI agents. The startup, announced on X, targets the $18 trillion US wage pool and $60 trillion globally, aiming to provide the data and digital frameworks needed to automate any role. While Besiroglu claims this could lead to explosive economic growth and higher living standards, critics warn of mass unemployment and question the ethical implications.
The controversy extends to Besiroglu’s non-profit, Epoch, which has been seen as an unbiased AI research institute. Some worry Mechanize’s ambitions could tarnish Epoch’s reputation, especially given its prior involvement in setting AI benchmarks for major tech companies. Investors supporting Mechanize cite the team’s deep expertise, but social media reactions have been mixed, with some expressing concern over the societal impact of full automation.
Despite skepticism, Mechanize is pushing forward, focusing initially on automating white-collar work and hiring talent to overcome the current technical limitations of AI agents. The company’s vision is bold, but questions remain about whether displaced workers will benefit from new opportunities or be left behind in an AI-driven economy. (Lunden, 2025)
Lunden, I. (2025, April 19). Famed AI researcher launches controversial startup to replace all human workers everywhere. TechCrunch. https://techcrunch.com/2025/04/19/famed-ai-researcher-launches-controversial-startup-to-replace-all-human-workers-everywhere/
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