Nobel Prize-winning economist Daron Acemoglu believes liberal democracy is facing a crisis, exacerbated by the unchecked development and deployment of artificial intelligence. Acemoglu contends that liberal democracy historically thrived on citizens having a voice in their governance and sharing in economic prosperity. However, he observed that Western governments have increasingly made significant decisions, such as on immigration, without cultivating public agreement, leading many working people to feel unheard and contributing to the rise of populism.
In an interview with BBC Newsnight, Acemoglu warned that AI could deepen these issues by widening economic inequality and causing job displacement. He expressed concern that society is not being consulted on how AI will shape its future.
"AI is going to transform every aspect of our lives, and we're not being asked. We have no say in how AI is going to shape our society," Acemoglu stated. He highlighted that this lack of input is particularly concerning for the billions of people outside the United States, United Kingdom, and China, whose lives will be profoundly impacted by AI with no voice in its development.
Acemoglu's insights were featured in "The Interview," a BBC program that showcases conversations with influential global figures. The program, presented by Paddy O’Connell, airs on the BBC World Service and is available as a podcast on BBC Sounds and other platforms three times a week.