Perplexity CEO Aravind Srinivas is facing criticism online after saying artificial intelligence could lead to "temporary job displacement" while creating new opportunities for people to start businesses.
The comments were made during an appearance on the All-In Podcast, where Srinivas said AI could make workers more productive and eventually create what he described as a "glorious future."
"The reality is most people don't enjoy their jobs," Srinivas said. He added that people could use AI tools to start "your own mini business."
The remarks drew strong criticism on social media, with users accusing Srinivas of ignoring the financial impact of losing a job. Many said his comments overlooked the importance of stable income, health insurance, and support for families.
The backlash intensified after about 30,000 employees were laid off by Oracle on Tuesday, adding to concerns over AI-related job losses in the technology sector.
One user on X called Srinivas' comments "stupid", while another said unemployed workers could not simply be expected to turn immediately to entrepreneurship.
Another post said a wealthy executive was telling workers who had lost their jobs to be grateful because they could now use AI tools to build a business.
Some users agreed with Srinivas that many people dislike their jobs, but said that did not make unemployment easier.
One user wrote that people still need the chance to work because jobs provide financial stability.
Others defended Srinivas, arguing that AI is already allowing a single worker to handle tasks that once required several employees, including marketing, operations, and customer support.
Perplexity AI also defended its chief executive. In a statement to The New York Post, the company said Americans have filed 16 million new business applications since Perplexity launched in December 2022.
The company said major technologies do not eliminate opportunity, but instead create new forms of work and business.