Intelligence Squared Nick Clegg on Meta, AI and the Battle for Big Tech (Part Two)
Sep 11, 2025
Nick Clegg, President of Global Affairs at Meta and former Deputy Prime Minister of the UK, discusses the delicate balance between Big Tech and democracy. He argues that the backlash against tech companies is often exaggerated, advocating for reasoned regulation. Clegg explores AI's complex landscape, emphasizing the need for adaptive frameworks that foster innovation without compromising accountability. He also highlights the shifting dynamics of social media in response to competition, noting the irony in its evolving nature amid growing algorithm-driven content.
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Democracy Needs Elected Authority
- Nick Clegg argues it was healthier for democracy that Trump prevailed over unaccountable tech influence.
- He says elected politicians must ultimately hold power, not tech titans.
Rebuilding Government Relations Post-2016
- Clegg recounts persuading Meta to rebuild ties with governments after 2016 and Cambridge Analytica.
- He describes shifting the company from reflexive resistance to accepting necessary regulation.
Decision-Making Is US-Centric
- Clegg highlights a mismatch: most users are outside the U.S. while decisions focus on America.
- He warns that company culture is US-centric despite global impacts.
