Behind the Curtain: The ever-growing AI inequality gap

U.S. tech companies are heavily investing in an AI race, aiming to achieve superintelligence ahead of China. However, the U.S. government is not adequately preparing Americans for the significant economic and job disruption that AI is bringing. This growing disparity between AI industry insiders and the general population is poised to dominate political discourse. Figures like Bernie Sanders and Elon Musk, despite their differences, warn that AI-powered robots could eliminate most jobs, potentially necessitating a universal basic income. Musk specifically suggested that future work might become optional. This concern is not purely speculative, as Amazon has already considered using robots instead of hiring new staff, potentially impacting hundreds of thousands of jobs. While superintelligence and widespread job displacement remain future possibilities, the current impact of AI and related investments is undeniable, fueling economic growth and benefiting the wealthy. Most Americans do not benefit directly from these AI-driven gains, facing rising costs and job market challenges. This economic divergence could fuel significant social unrest and political upheaval, particularly affecting the working class. Neither the Trump administration nor Congress shows a strong inclination to regulate AI, and politicians are reluctant to alarm voters about potential job losses. Despite warnings of widespread job elimination and increased unemployment, there has been little legislative action. Consequently, AI is likely to continue advancing with limited national preparedness for its societal consequences.