The Sunday Show Decolonizing the Future: Karen Hao on Resisting the Empire of AI
20 snips
May 23, 2025 
Karen Hao, a journalist and author of 'Empire of AI,' dives into the troubling dynamics of artificial intelligence and its imperialistic impact on marginalized communities. She critiques the unethical practices of tech giants like OpenAI and emphasizes the vast disparity between executives and lower-paid workers. The conversation highlights grassroots activism against harmful AI developments and advocates for a future where AI promotes equity in education and healthcare. Hao envisions a world where technology serves humanity rather than undermining it.
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AI Industry as Modern Empire
- The AI industry mirrors colonial empire-building with companies believing they have a superior moral mission.
- OpenAI led an aggressive race to dominate AI, escalating resource use and deepening inequalities.
Hidden AI Labor Harms
- Kenyan workers like MoFat endured extreme content moderation work for AI at minimal wages.
- The psychological toll broke workers' lives, highlighting AI's harsh labor hierarchies.
Data Center Environmental Impact
- Data centers intensify resource exploitation globally, notably in drought-hit Chile.
- Local activists fight against corporate overuse of public water and infrastructure control.
