The “hype” around AI isn’t fading, and there’s no indication that it ever will. This is not a passing trend or a short-lived novelty that quickly fades away. The development of machine learning, algorithms, and artificial intelligence is shaping countless aspects of our lives, including how we work. Recently, I read a book by Yuval Noah Harari that delves deeply into this topic. If you enjoyed Harari’s widely acclaimed Sapiens, you should definitely check out his latest work, Nexus.
In this book, Harari explores numerous historical, political, and economic systems, eventually leading to a powerful conclusion: the AI revolution is, indeed, a revolution – not a gradual evolution, as many significant changes in history have been. Through numerous examples, he illustrates the risks posed by both advanced machine learning systems and simpler algorithms. Harari also challenges the idea that only complex systems can be “intelligent,” showing that even basic algorithms can achieve their intended goals – though the methods they use might be questionable. Social media is a prime example of this: what might seem unethical from a human perspective is often just another logical step for an algorithm striving to meet its objectives.
For instance, authoritarian regimes seek to centralize knowledge about every citizen’s actions to tighten control and influence. Historically, such a feat has been unattainable: too many people would be required to monitor others, and then, who would monitor the monitors? The sheer scale of bureaucratic work made it unmanageable. But with AI – or even just more advanced algorithms – this problem disappears. These systems can process vast amounts of data in record time, tirelessly, without vacation or sick leave, and without demanding a raise. For regimes, this becomes a revolutionary tool that can profoundly alter the lives of millions.
While the above examples might sound like the author is entirely against AI development, that’s fortunately not the case. Harari acknowledges its numerous benefits but highlights potential risks and leaves us with open-ended questions: How will humanity address these challenges? The scenarios he presents don’t resemble a Terminator-like dystopia where machines roam the streets, hunting humans. Instead, the future is uncertain and unpredictable. We cannot assume that what we create will behave as we do – it’s an entirely different… species?
I highly recommend this book. It reads like a gripping thriller, yet it tells a story rooted in the present – about the rapid changes around us, the AI revolution, and what the future might hold. No one knows what’s coming, but the journey Harari lays out is nothing short of fascinating.
