Boaz Barak: Embrace AI tools like Claude Code, Codex to avoid becoming a dinosaur
Harvard professor urges 2026 grads to master ChatGPT, Claude Code, and Codex.
In a Harvard Crimson op-ed for the commencement issue, computer scientist Boaz Barak delivers a blunt warning to the Class of 2026: treat AI as a meteor, not a threat to be ignored. He urges graduates to master AI tools—naming ChatGPT, Claude Code, Codex, and emerging startup products—and apply them aggressively across all fields, from English to computer science. Barak argues that AI can turn initiative, creativity, and vision into tangible results, even without experience or capital, enabling small teams to achieve what once required hundreds of employees.
At the same time, Barak emphasizes responsible citizenship: use AI, but critically. He calls for accountability from companies, and for governments to regulate wisely. He downplays some risks (e.g., water usage) while highlighting underdiscussed ones like concentration of power. His final message: even if you oppose AI deployment, use AI to strengthen your case. The op-ed is a rallying cry for proactive, ethical adoption of a transformative force.
- Advises using specific tools: ChatGPT, Claude Code, Codex, and new startup products.
- Predicts small teams with AI will surpass results from large companies with hundreds of employees.
- Urges critical citizenship: hold AI companies and regulators accountable, especially on power concentration.
Why It Matters
Barak’s stance flips the narrative: not fear AI, but master it—while demanding accountability from its creators.