Effective Altruism Explained: Why the Pentagon Is Attacking AI 'Doomers' | Fortune Daily

Why has Effective Altruism, a philanthropic philosophy built on solving charity like a math problem, become the center of Washington's biggest battle over AI?

From major figures at OpenAI, Anthropic, and Google DeepMind to sharp criticism from defense officials, the movement is facing unprecedented political scrutiny. Senior AI reporter Bea Nolan joins Fortune Daily to break down what Effective Altruists actually believe, why critics claim it threatens technological progress, and what the debate over AI "doomers" means for the future of the industry.

Also on today's episode: • Imperia Launch: First Lady Melania Trump rings the NYSE opening bell to debut Imperia, an invite-only network designed as a "Davos for women" connecting female CEOs with global capital and dealmakers.

• Under the Radar: Business Editor Nick Lichtenberg explores how Gen Z is building wealth with help from parents—and the economic guilt driving families to step in.

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Additional images courtesy of Getty Images

00:00 - Why Washington Is Targeting Effective Altruism

01:48 - Inside the AI Doomer Debate with Bea Nolan

11:25 - Melania Trump Launches "Imperia" at NYSE

13:48 - How Gen Z Relies on the Bank of Mom and Dad