In 2002, Kevin Kelly of Wired magazine asked Larry Page of Google why the search engine was free, as noted by philosopher Yuval Noah Harari in his book ‘Nexus – A Brief History of Information Networks From The Stone Age to AI’ (Random House). “Where does that lead you?” Kelly inquired. Page responded by stating that Google’s focus wasn't solely on search. “We’re primarily developing an AI, ” he explained. “Having a vast amount of data facilitates the creation of AI, and AI has the capacity to transform substantial data into significant power. ” In ‘Nexus’, Harari examines the evolution of information networks from the inception of language to the age of Google and beyond, speculating on the trajectory of this “information revolution. ” He asserts, “Given that this current information revolution is more significant than any preceding one, it is likely to generate unparalleled realities on an extraordinary scale. ” This phenomenon is not unprecedented. Harari notes, “The propensity to create potent phenomena with unintended results dates back to the advent of religion.

Prophets have invoked formidable spirits intended to foster love and joy, yet they sometimes resulted in torrents of bloodshed. ” He further cautions about the profound implications tied to AI’s capacities. “Only eighty years have passed since the advent of digital computers, and we have yet to fully harness their capabilities, ” he states. “What has transpired in the last eighty years pales in comparison to what lies ahead. ” While technology companies maintain a direct connection to governments, they also hold what Harari describes as “a direct line to people’s emotional systems, ” which poses a risk. “If tech giants cater to the desires of voters and consumers, yet simultaneously shape these desires, who is truly in control?” he questions. Although humanity's adaptability provides a glimmer of hope, threats from malicious entities remain. “Human civilization could also face destruction from weapons of social mass destruction, ” he warns. “An AI engineered in one country could be employed to unleash a torrent of misinformation, counterfeit currency, and synthetic individuals, leaving people unable to trust anything or anyone. “AI is a global issue. ” — Gavin Newsham