DeepMind workers sign letter in protest of Google’s defense contracts

Aug 23, 2024

DeepMind employees challenge Google's military contracts, citing ethical concerns in an internal letter from May.

DeepMind workers sign letter in protest of Google’s defense contracts

: At least 200 DeepMind employees expressed their dissatisfaction with Google's defense contracts through an internal letter dated May 16. The letter highlights concerns regarding Google's AI and cloud services for the Israeli military and their impact on ethical AI. Employees argue this involvement conflicts with Google's mission and AI Principles. The memo reflects a broader cultural clash between Google and its subsidiary, DeepMind, which was promised not to be involved in military activities.

In May, at least 200 employees from DeepMind voiced their discontent regarding Google's defense contracts through an internal communication. Dated May 16, the letter expresses concerns about Google's involvement with the Israeli military using AI and cloud services.

The letter claims that such military associations affect Google's stance on ethical and responsible AI practices. Employees emphasized that this contradicts Google's mission statement and their stated AI Principles, raising ethical implications.

Although representing a minority within the organization, the letter underscores underlying tensions between Google and DeepMind. Acquired by Google in 2014, DeepMind was assured in 2018 that its technology would not be used for military or surveillance purposes, a promise now seen at risk.