Could generative AI could turn out to be the tech industry’s Vietnam? And could public backlash lead AI to a better place?
Cognitive scientist Gary Marcus draws a parallel between the current generative AI boom and the Vietnam War, suggesting that massive, costly investments may yield little return and be fueled by arrogance. He notes a growing public backlash against AI, evidenced by commencement speakers being booed for mentioning the technology. Marcus also points to a potential political shift, with Donald Trump reportedly considering AI pre-flight checks, a move Marcus had previously predicted and advocated for. AI
IMPACT Public backlash and potential policy shifts could slow AI development or steer it toward safer, more regulated paths.