Shouldn’t Sci-Fi Writers Love A.I.? Cory Doctorow Sure Doesn’t.

Cory Doctorow, a prominent science fiction writer and activist, has expressed deep skepticism about the current trajectory of artificial intelligence, arguing that its rapid integration into daily life and industry threatens to "enshittify everything." In a recent podcast interview, Doctorow discussed how AI's unchecked growth could lead to economic instability, job displacement, and even a collapse of the stock market. His concerns were voiced during a segment titled What Next? hosted by Slate, which aired on June 26. Doctorow, known for his work on topics ranging from digital rights to speculative fiction, warned that the rise of AI companies is not just a technological shift but a systemic risk. He suggested that these firms might either directly displace workers or indirectly destabilize financial markets, whichever happens first. This dual threat, he argued, is rooted in the fundamental misalignment between the goals of AI developers and the broader public interest. The conversation took place against a backdrop of growing unease among writers and thinkers about the implications of AI. Doctorow pointed out that while the technology itself is neutral, its deployment often reflects the priorities of corporate interests rather than societal well-being. He used the term "enshittification," a concept he has previously explored, to describe how systems become worse over time due to profit-driven optimization rather than user-centric design. In the interview, Doctorow emphasized that the problems with AI are not new but are being exacerbated by the speed at which the technology is advancing. He referenced historical precedents such as industrial automation, which initially caused widespread fear but eventually led to new forms of employment and economic structures. However, he cautioned that the current wave of AI is different because it affects a much broader range of jobs and industries simultaneously. Doctorow also touched on the role of regulation in mitigating potential harms. He argued that policymakers must act decisively to ensure that AI technologies serve the public good rather than private interests. Without robust oversight, he warned, the benefits of AI would be unevenly distributed, leading to increased inequality and social unrest. The discussion was part of a larger series of conversations on the future of work and technology hosted by What Next?, a podcast produced by Slate. The episode featured contributions from multiple producers, including Rob Gunther, Evan Campbell, Madeline Thames-Ducharme, and Patrick Fort, under the supervision of Paige Osburn, the senior supervising producer of the show. Doctorow's critique aligns with a growing body of literature and commentary questioning the assumptions behind the AI boom. While many technologists and investors see artificial intelligence as a panacea for complex global challenges, critics argue that the focus should be on ensuring ethical development and equitable distribution of benefits. As the debate continues, experts from various fields are calling for a more nuanced approach to AI governance. Some advocate for international cooperation to set standards, while others emphasize the need for transparency and accountability within individual corporations. Regardless of the path forward, the conversation around AI's impact on society shows no signs of abating. Doctorow's latest comments come amid increasing calls for regulatory action in several countries, where lawmakers are beginning to draft legislation aimed at addressing the risks associated with AI. These efforts reflect a recognition that the technology's influence extends far beyond the realm of innovation and into areas such as privacy, security, and labor rights. The podcast episode concluded with a reminder that the future of AI is still being written, and that the choices made today will shape the landscape for generations to come. As Doctorow noted, the challenge lies not in predicting the exact outcomes but in ensuring that the development of AI serves humanity rather than subjugates it.