AI Hype Enters Its Geopolitics Era w/ Timnit Gebru
Mar 13, 2025
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Timnit Gebru, the founder and executive director of the Distributed AI Research Institute, shares her insights on the deepening geopolitical implications of AI. She critiques the unfulfilled promises of AI advancements by major companies while discussing the cultural idolization of figures like Elon Musk. Gebru highlights ethical concerns surrounding data use and governmental compliance, advocating for a shift in how tech narratives are framed. The conversation also touches on building solidarity among global data workers to challenge industry monopolies.
Ongoing citizen advocacy and pressure are crucial for holding elected officials accountable regarding ethical AI policies and regulation.
The rise of new AI models like DeepSeek reveals significant geopolitical shifts that challenge American and European dominance in AI innovation.
Worker solidarity and collective action are essential for addressing labor exploitation issues and shaping equitable technology development in the AI sector.
Deep dives
Pressuring Politicians for Responsible AI Development
There is a pressing need to hold elected officials accountable for their decisions regarding technology and AI development. Merely voting for political leaders is insufficient; there must be ongoing pressure from citizens and advocacy groups to guide policy and regulation. Discussions around accountability also address the ethical implications of AI technologies and their application in society. Grassroots movements and informed public discourse are essential in shaping a future where technology serves the public interest.
The Implications of AI Models on Global Competitiveness
The emergence of new AI models like DeepSeek highlights significant geopolitical dynamics between the United States, Europe, and China. These models challenge the previously established dominance of American and European AI companies, raising questions about innovation and efficiency in AI development. As companies like OpenAI continue to invest in large, resource-intensive models, they may inadvertently limit competition and innovation. This scenario prompts a critical reevaluation of what constitutes effective AI strategies in the global arena.
Critique of Current AI Technologies
There is growing skepticism about the legitimacy of claims made by major AI firms regarding their model capabilities, particularly in regards to reasoning and intelligence. The tools developed, such as transcription and summarization systems, often suffer from problems like inaccuracies and bias, particularly against marginalized groups. This raises concerns about the ethical dimensions of deploying such technologies without addressing the inherent flaws. It emphasizes the need for a more thoughtful evaluation of the effectiveness and consequences of AI systems in real-world applications.
The Role of Labor in AI Development
The importance of worker solidarity and collective action in the tech sector has become increasingly clear in discussions about AI ethics and development. Initiatives aimed at uplifting workers’ voices are vital, particularly in regions heavily impacted by outsourcing and labor exploitation. Programs that foster cross-border solidarity among data workers can lead to powerful movements for fair labor practices and equitable technology development. The integration of workers' perspectives can drive a broader understanding of the impacts of AI on society.
Imagining a Different Technological Future
Imagining alternative futures for technology requires creativity and a departure from conventional Silicon Valley narratives. Fostering innovation must involve a shift from pursuing grand, all-encompassing AI models to more nimble, purpose-driven solutions that prioritize community needs. Encouraging public engagement in envisioning a tech landscape that values sustainability and social responsibility can spark new approaches to technology development. Engaging communities in these discussions can help reframe the narrative around technology and its role in society.
Paris Marx is joined by Timnit Gebru to discuss where the AI industry stands in 2025 as AI increasingly becomes a geopolitical football even as the big promises made by AI companies fail to materialize.
Timnit Gebru is the founder and executive director of the Distributed AI Research Institute.
Tech Won’t Save Us offers a critical perspective on tech, its worldview, and wider society with the goal of inspiring people to demand better tech and a better world. Support the show on Patreon.
The podcast is made in partnership with The Nation. Production is by Eric Wickham.
Also mentioned in this episode:
Timnit wrote about the TESCREAL bundle of ideologies with Émile Torres.
The Data Workers’ Inquiry allowed data workers to share their experiences in their workplaces.
