In the internet age, the prevailing ideology suggests that greater access to information and transparency will lead to a more truthful and enlightened world. While it seems easier than ever to gain and share knowledge, many argue that this surge in information has not equated to increased wisdom or reduced ignorance. Historian Yuval Noah Harari explores this paradox in his new book, **Nexus**, where he makes two significant points. First, he emphasizes that key systems in human civilization—such as currency, religion, and nation-states—are built on information networks. Second, he argues that despite the empowering nature of these networks, their design often leads to negative outcomes; as our technological power grows, so does the potential for catastrophic consequences. Harari's conversation with Sean Illing on **The Gray Area** podcast delves into the potential dangers of artificial intelligence (AI), which he sees as an unprecedented and unpredictable information network. He raises concerns about how AI could reshape society, create new identities, and complicate our understanding of existing systems. A central theme in Harari’s argument is the notion that while humans have accumulated vast amounts of information, the quality of that information often leads to misguided decisions.

He stresses that most people are fundamentally good, but flawed information can lead to poor choices. Throughout history, societies have proven susceptible to mass delusions, reinforcing the idea that information does not directly equal truth. In his analysis, Harari warns about the complexities AI introduces, particularly in financial systems. He suggests that as AI develops new financial instruments, a growing portion of society may find the financial landscape incomprehensible, raising the risk of a disconnect between the general population and decision-making entities. As AI advances, he foresees a scenario where democracy faces significant challenges if accountability falters. Democratic processes rely on the public's ability to understand and challenge decisions, which could be jeopardized if AI systems operate in opaque or inscrutable ways. Harari concludes that the balance between democracy and technology depends on human choices. He advocates for holding corporations accountable for their algorithms and emphasizes that AI should not engage in human conversations without clear identification. By ensuring a clear distinction between human input and AI influence, societies may better navigate the complexities of modern democracy. Ultimately, Harari’s insights suggest that while we have the potential to harness information networks positively, we must be vigilant about how we design and interact with these technologies to avert harmful outcomes.