The Economist is optimistic about AI, as you would expect. It will create vast numbers of high paying jobs in fields that don’t even exist today, because technological improvements always do. Sure, there are potential pitfalls, but they will be handled smoothly and appropriately through the political system. Don’t worry; be happy.
The public is not so sure. In particular, it has doubts that a sclerotic political system that failed to compensate the unlucky losers of globalization and tech changes over the last few decades will do any better this time around. From booing graduation speakers to supporting data center moratoria, it is fighting back as best it can.
Until now, the tech titans have tried to manage the backlash by making vague promises and large campaign contributions to friendly politicians. They have also portrayed themselves as front line soldiers in a new cold war with China, and, of course, they have sucked up to Trump, bigly. Since these tactics have met with limited success, expect two new gambits: first, IPOs, in addition to adding to their already fabulous wealth, will create a larger class of capitalists with a strong vested interest in deregulating AI; second, the tech titans and Trump will promise small payments to the public in an effort to fend off efforts at nationalization. Will it work? The future is unwritten.