There is no inconsistency here. You can believe that AI has serious risks while also believing it is overall worthwhile to develop and create it.

I'd rather have someone like Altman leading the charge on bringing AI to market as it is at least clear he has thought about and understands the risks. A lot of people who are criticising him appear it be in the "Don't pursue AI at all" camp which is the wrong call imo as it looks to be an enormous productivity and technology enhancer with the potential for clear benefits (already visible in things like personalised tutoring).