Tech journalist Karen Hao’s debut book, “Empire of AI,” sheds light on the cutthroat world of artificial intelligence, where companies like OpenAI prioritize profit over transparency and ethics. Hao argues that AI itself isn’t the problem, but rather the culture of developing new capabilities at all costs, which has led to the exploitation of marginalized communities and the depletion of natural resources. She proposes a more democratic approach to AI development, encouraging education, regulation, and diverse research paths.
Forecast for 6 months: OpenAI and other major AI companies will face increased scrutiny from regulators and the public, leading to a slight increase in transparency and accountability measures.
Forecast for 1 year: As the demand for AI continues to grow, we can expect to see more startups and smaller companies entering the market, potentially disrupting the dominance of OpenAI and other established players.
Forecast for 5 years: The development of more democratic and community-driven AI initiatives, such as the Indigenous-driven effort in New Zealand, will gain momentum, leading to a shift in the industry’s focus towards more inclusive and sustainable practices.
Forecast for 10 years: The consequences of unchecked AI growth will become more apparent, leading to a global reckoning and a potential re-evaluation of the current AI development model. This could result in a more regulated and responsible approach to AI, with a greater emphasis on human values and well-being.
