Google DeepMind Faces Backlash Over Contract Clause Barring Lifetime Criticism

At a glance

It has emerged that Google DeepMind has included a clause in employee contracts that bars staff from publicly criticizing the company for life, even after they leave. Employees are demanding the clause be removed, saying it stops them from speaking openly about AI risks. Google has said the clause does not apply to former employees.

Key points

1. 1

   The Washington Post reviewed the contract and confirmed the clause's existence through interviews with two current employees.

2. 2

   Employees believe the clause blocks their chance to warn about AI risks.

3. 3

   Google explained that it deleted the post-employment provision from recent contracts for new hires.

4. 4

   Employees argue the clause should be completely removed from existing contracts as well.

Why it matters

Whether people who leave AI companies can freely speak about risks is tied to the public's right to know how technology affects society.