Ex-Google CEO Eric Schmidt: ‘Playing with fire’ at the dawn of the age of AI

Former Google CEO Eric Schmidt joins Margaret Hoover to discuss advances in artificial intelligence, the impact that the technology could have on humanity, and how to prepare for the future it will bring.

Schmidt, who co-authored “The Age of A.I.” with Henry Kissinger and MIT computer scientist Daniel Huttenlocher, details how artificial intelligence could spur dramatic changes in medicine, warfare, and parenting. He also explains why he is more optimistic than some experts about the outlook for the post-A.I. labor market.

Having run Google for a decade, Schmidt offers insight into the debate over free speech and social media moderation, as well as the potential tradeoffs of imposing government regulations on emerging technologies. He also argues against barring former President Donald Trump from social media platforms.

Schmidt acknowledges some ethical and technological challenges loom as A.I. evolves, but says he hopes to start a conversation about addressing them before it is too late. He also foresees A.I. and technology playing a vital role in combating climate change.

Support for “Firing Line for Margaret Hoover” is provided by Stephens Inc., Robert Granieri, Charles R. Schwab, The Margaret and Daniel Loeb Foundation, The Tepper Foundation, The Fairweather Foundation, The Asness Family Foundation, Pfizer Inc., Craig Newmark Philanthropies, The Rosalind P. Walter Foundation, Damon Button and Simmons Family Foundation.