Anthropic has announced the creation of the Anthropic Public Benefit Fund, a wholly-owned LLC intended for public good initiatives. This fund will initially hold 5% of Anthropic's shares, with potential for additional contributions based on company value increases. The fund's structure allows flexibility in how it disburses funds, potentially supporting traditional nonprofits or direct aid to specific populations. One proposed use is addressing labor market disruptions caused by AI, an area Anthropic has already invested in. Importantly, the fund will not be used for lobbying or political donations.However, public reaction on social media has been predominantly skeptical and critical. Many commenters question the definition of "public good" and express concerns about the vagueness of the press release. Suspicions have also been raised that the fund is primarily a tax write-off strategy for the company. Critics highlight the irony of an AI company establishing a fund to aid those displaced by its own technology. This skepticism contrasts sharply with Anthropic's earlier positive public image, which stemmed from its stance against certain AI applications and its image as a company concerned with societal impact. Recent discussions surrounding AI's existential risks and the outspoken concerns of Anthropic's own CEO have contributed to a prevailing atmosphere of AI doomerism. This makes Anthropic's endeavor to convince the public of the fund's genuine altruistic purpose an increasingly challenging task.