PBS News Hour - Segments New book offers glimpse inside world of controversial tech firm Palantir and its CEO
Jan 10, 2026
Michael Steinberger, a contributing writer for the New York Times Magazine and author of The Philosopher in the Valley, dives into the complex world of Palantir Technologies and its enigmatic CEO, Alex Karp. He discusses the controversial impact of surveillance technology on society, highlighting Palantir's efficiency versus its divisive use by governmental agencies. Steinberger reveals Karp's unique non-technical background and his shifting political views, as well as the company’s privacy claims and the contentious contracts with ICE.
AI Snips
Chapters
Books
Transcript
Episode notes
Palantir’s Core Product Is Data Analysis
- Palantir builds software that helps organizations analyze and use their own data more efficiently.
- The company does not collect, store, or sell data itself according to Michael Steinberger.
Powerful Tools, Polarized Reactions
- Palantir's tools can be both efficiency-boosting and potentially abusive depending on the user.
- Its client base includes corporations, the CIA, and ICE, creating sharply divided views about its impact.
Privacy Promises Depend On Clients
- Alex Karp emphasizes privacy protections and argues Palantir can target bad actors without sweeping up innocents.
- But Palantir does not enforce client use, leaving actual privacy protections dependent on client choices.
