Machine Gods

OpenAI’s Latest Discoveries Spark a Backlash + Help! My Kid Hates AI

October 30, 2026·47 min
Episode Description from the Publisher

OpenAI has angered scientists (again) after its AI cracked three of the hardest problems in math, computer science, and physics. But researchers are pushing back on how the company is sharing the results, from proofs that are hard to verify to OpenAI handpicking who reviews them first. We break down what OpenAI is claiming, how its release process is changing, and what’s left for human scientists if AI keeps solving problems that stumped experts for decades.Then, in the first installment of Humans in the Loop, our new listener mailbag, we answer your questions: What do you tell a teenager who thinks AI is evil when your job requires you to use it? How do you shut down a rogue AI agent swarm? And is it ever OK to secretly change your partner’s ChatGPT settings?For a transcript of this episode, check out npr.org/machinegods.You can watch this full episode on YouTube, Spotify or Apple. And if you’ve got a question you want us to answer, you can drop us a comment on any of those platforms or email us at hey@machinegods.fmSee pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for sponsorship and to manage your podcast sponsorship preferences.NPR Privacy Policy

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