Scott Wu, Cognition

Scott Wu, founder of Cognition, explores the intersection of extreme competitiveness and the development of AI agents. Driven by a childhood aversion to losing, Wu applies a "tree search" strategy to building software, aiming to create a tool that serves as a primary human-computer interface. Devin, an AI software engineer, represents a shift toward "creative mode," where agents handle complex, multi-step tasks that previously required human labor. Wu emphasizes the importance of first-principles thinking over simple pattern matching, noting that AI's exponential progress will soon allow agents to execute year-long missions. By maintaining independence and focusing on the messy, real-world challenges of large-scale software engineering, Cognition seeks to build a generational business that empowers users to move beyond survival mode into creative expression.