Eric Schmidt, the former CEO of Google, is contemplating artificial intelligence—its interaction with humans and its potential to transform, or even replace, democracy. Schmidt coauthored the book *Genesis* alongside former Microsoft executive Craig Mundie and the late Henry Kissinger, who passed away in 2023, shortly before the book's release. According to Schmidt, Kissinger had pondered the essence of reality "since before we were born, " dedicating his later years to examining how technology might distort our perception of reality. *Genesis* includes a historical anecdote about the Spanish conquistadors invading present-day Mexico in 1519. The Aztec rulers appeared to mistake the newcomers for deities; their emperor initially sought their counsel and ultimately became their captive, allowing the conquistadors to seize control. This unsettling narrative raises the question of whether AI could conquer humanity. Schmidt discussed the book on *Morning Edition*, and a longer version of the conversation is accessible through the provided button. Here are six key points from our discussion: 1. **Widespread AI Availability**: The recent launch of China’s more affordable large language model, DeepSeek, has shocked the AI sector and poses what Schmidt describes as "a problem of proliferation. " This means nearly anyone can interact with "a great philosopher, a great polymath, and a great Leonardo da Vinci, " including those with malicious intent. 2. **AI as a Tool for Demagogues**: These AI systems can turn into powerful "addiction machines and persuaders, " enabling political leaders to "promise everything to everyone" through personalized messaging. 3. **Limited Understanding of Technology**: The coauthors reflect on how humans may respond to the growing might of computers. They fear two outcomes: people might idolize this new intelligence, potentially transforming it into a religion, or they could resort to fighting against it. 4. **Tech Leaders’ Misunderstanding**: According to Schmidt, "the reason they don’t get it right" is that these are fundamentally social and moral dilemmas.

While companies focus on maximizing revenue, they lack a broader societal agreement on "what’s right and what’s wrong. " 5. **Governance by AI**: The book probes the long-held concept of a "philosopher king, " an absolute ruler discussed through history yet rarely realized. Schmidt asks what would happen if an AI were to assume that role. "Artificial intelligence should, in theory, be able to reason better than humans. But if you were to give it a constitution, you encounter the dilemma of who gets to write that constitution. " 6. **Power Concentration Highlighted by Recent Events**: Schmidt expressed mixed emotions about the recent inauguration, feeling proud of the tech leaders standing alongside President Trump while also worrying that a vital boundary could be crossed. "I believe our country should be governed by our political leaders, " he stated, emphasizing the political ramifications of the businesses represented at the event.