Investor Matt Shumer Clarifies Viral Essay Wasn't Meant to Alarm Readers

The Rise of AI and Its Impact on the Workforce
Investor Matt Shumer recently published an essay that has sparked widespread discussion across social media platforms. His piece, titled "Something Big Is Happening," highlights the disruptive potential of artificial intelligence (AI) and has garnered over 80 million views. This massive reach has led to a mix of reactions from readers, with many praising his insights while others question the implications of AI's rapid development.
Shumer emphasized that his intention was not to instill fear but to encourage people in the workforce to start using AI tools seriously. He shared his experience with AI during an interview with TUSER PARABOLA, where he reflected on how the essay gained such popularity.
A Thoughtful Perspective on AI
In his essay, Shumer draws parallels between the current state of AI and the early days of the Covid-19 pandemic in February 2020. He suggests that just as the virus caught many off guard, AI is also poised to have a significant impact on various industries. The launch of OpenAI's ChatGPT in 2022 marked a turning point, leading to intense competition among tech giants like Google and Anthropic.
Investors have been pouring billions into AI technology, with major companies such as Alphabet, Microsoft, Meta, and Amazon planning to spend nearly $700 billion on capital expenditures this year alone. Shumer’s essay resonated with many professionals who are beginning to see the potential of AI in their respective fields.
The Shock of AI Capabilities
Shumer expressed his surprise at discovering that AI can perform the actual technical work of his job. He believes that professionals in fields such as law, finance, medicine, and accounting will soon experience similar realizations. This shift could lead to a reevaluation of traditional roles and responsibilities within these industries.
The essay, published on Tuesday, received over 100,000 likes and nearly 6,000 comments on X. Shumer acknowledged that he would have framed some parts differently if he had anticipated the level of attention it would receive. However, he remains committed to his core message: that individuals in the workforce should begin to use and experiment with AI tools to better understand what lies ahead.
Embracing the Future
Shumer stressed that while AI has the potential to disrupt many knowledge-based jobs, it does not necessarily mean immediate adoption or widespread proliferation. He believes that the key is for people to engage with AI tools and recognize their capabilities.
"Everybody likes to think their thing is special," Shumer said. "I thought my thing was special for a while." This sentiment reflects a broader need for individuals to adapt and evolve in the face of technological advancements.
As AI continues to develop, it is crucial for workers to stay informed and proactive. By experimenting with AI tools, professionals can gain valuable insights and prepare for the changes that lie ahead. Shumer’s essay serves as a reminder that while the future may be uncertain, being prepared and open to change is essential for navigating the evolving landscape of work.