His casual remarks about taking Tesla private for $420 per share notably sparked an inquiry by the SEC, demonstrating the practical repercussions of his remarks.
Musk, meanwhile, still embraces his position as a provocateur, tweeting often on subjects like advanced artificial intelligence and existential dangers to mankind.
His propensity to entertain, provoke, and question conventions is part of a larger plan to maintain his reputation—and hence his endeavors—in the public spotlight.
Musk’s ability to appeal to a shared sense of wonder and curiosity is what makes his claims compelling, whether they are about artificial intelligence,
Time travel, or conquering Mars. Musk has successfully created a contemporary mythology around his public character by fusing comedy with lofty ideals.
His assertion that he is a 3,000-year-old extraterrestrial is only the most recent development in this continuous story, highlighting his unique status as a cultural phenomenon and inventor.
