Practical AI How is AI shaping democracy?
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Jan 27, 2026 
Bruce Schneier, security expert and Berkman Klein fellow who wrote Rewiring Democracy, reflects on how AI is reshaping politics and citizenship. He outlines AI’s reach across elections, law, administration, and courts. He warns about concentration of power and highlights alternatives like public and regional models. He also discusses practical AI uses in governance and what builders should consider now.
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AI Amplifies Existing Political Power
- AI is a power-enhancing technology that amplifies the intentions of its wielders.
- If you like democracy, AI can strengthen it; if you hate democracy, AI can erode it.
AI's Reach Across Democratic Institutions
- AI touches elections, legislation, administration, courts, and citizen engagement worldwide.
- The book surveys global examples showing both positive and negative democratic impacts across sectors.
Measure AI Against The Real Alternative
- 'Good enough' depends on context and comparison, not an absolute standard.
- In some settings AI outperforms humans; in others humans remain superior or there is no alternative than AI.
