"Elon Musk Less Influential in AI Than Scarlett Johansson, *Time* Magazine Claims: Billionaire Shrugs Off Snub — 'Magazines Do Not Establish Relevance, History Does'"

 

*Time* magazine’s recent "100 Most Influential People in AI" list has stirred up significant controversy, not least because it placed actress Scarlett Johansson on the roster while leaving out one of the most prominent figures in technology, Elon Musk. The decision has provoked widespread discussion in both tech and popular media, questioning the standards by which influence in artificial intelligence is judged.

Elon Musk, the CEO of Tesla and SpaceX and a co-founder of OpenAI, has been a towering figure in the AI community for years. His work on Tesla's autonomous vehicles and his investments in AI research have placed him at the forefront of AI innovation. Additionally, Musk's outspoken views on the potential dangers of AI, including his calls for regulation and ethical considerations, have made him a key voice in the global conversation about the future of artificial intelligence.

However, *Time* magazine's editors appear to have taken a different view of influence, opting to include Scarlett Johansson, whose recent venture into AI comes through her AI-driven skincare brand, The Outset. While her contributions to AI are largely within the beauty industry, *Time* highlighted her efforts as a significant example of AI’s expanding role beyond traditional tech boundaries.

Musk, known for his sharp wit and candid commentary, seemed unfazed by his exclusion. When asked for a response, the billionaire simply stated, “Magazines do not establish relevance, history does.” His remark suggests confidence in his enduring legacy and the belief that his contributions to AI and technology will speak louder than any curated list.

The juxtaposition of Musk's extensive work in AI against Johansson's relatively recent involvement in the field has led many to question the criteria *Time* used to determine influence. Critics argue that Musk's ongoing impact on AI innovation and discourse far outweighs that of Johansson's niche contributions. Yet, *Time*'s inclusion of Johansson signals a broader understanding of AI's reach, emphasizing its integration into various sectors, including entertainment and beauty.

While the debate over who truly influences AI rages on, Musk's response points to a longer-term perspective. Whether history will favor his approach over *Time*'s more diverse selection remains to be seen, but Musk’s confidence in his lasting impact suggests he’s not overly concerned with the present controversy.