Investor Matt Shumer has sparked significant discussion on social media following the release of his essay titled “Something Big Is Happening,” which addresses the transformative potential of artificial intelligence (AI). The essay has garnered over 80 million views and prompted Shumer, in a conversation with CNBC’s “Power Lunch,” to clarify that his intention was not to instill fear but to shed light on the underappreciated capabilities of AI.
Shumer expressed that he might have reconsidered parts of the essay had he anticipated its widespread impact. He draws a parallel between the current state of AI and the early warnings of the Covid-19 pandemic in February 2020, highlighting how quickly public perception can shift as technology evolves.
The AI landscape has expanded dramatically since the launch of OpenAI’s ChatGPT in 2022, catalyzing a competitive race among tech giants such as Google, Microsoft, and Amazon. These companies are projected to invest close to $700 billion in capital expenditures this year alone, reflecting the growing recognition of AI’s importance in various sectors.
In his essay, Shumer reflects on his shocking realization that AI could handle many of the technical tasks performed in his own profession. He anticipates that professionals in fields including law, finance, medicine, and accounting may soon share similar revelations, indicating a broader paradigm shift in the workforce.
Published on Tuesday, the essay quickly gained traction across social media, attracting over 100,000 likes and nearly 6,000 comments on X. While it has received both accolades and critiques from readers, Shumer stands by his conviction that AI’s development will disrupt many knowledge-based occupations. He emphasizes the necessity for workers to familiarize themselves with AI tools in preparation for future changes, urging them to experiment and adapt.
Shumer admits that he once believed his profession was uniquely positioned, yet he now recognizes the widespread implications of AI across different sectors. The overall message of his essay is a call to action for individuals to engage with AI technology, ensuring they are not left behind in an increasingly automated future. The conversation surrounding AI continues to evolve, carrying the promise of innovation while also presenting challenges that society must navigate.