The Ownership and Social Impact of Artificial Intelligence

This article discusses an often overlooked aspect of artificial intelligence: its ownership. The author argues that AI, like any other production tool, will primarily serve the interests of its owner. The development, direction, and social consequences of AI will largely depend on whether it is controlled by governments or major global corporations. The article highlights that AI development is extremely expensive, with only the wealthiest states and corporations capable of sustaining the financial burden. Specifically, the seven largest U.S. tech companies are projected to invest $0.7 trillion by 2030, which will have dramatic impacts on resource consumption such as water and energy. Drawing a historical analogy, the article compares AI to water-powered looms of the late 18th century: if used in the public interest, such technologies can increase abundance and leisure time. However, under private ownership in a capitalist system, AI is more likely to accelerate wealth concentration and artificially create scarcity. The piece emphasizes that AI is not neutral; its societal outcomes are shaped by who controls it and how it is deployed.