6bn People Have 'Zero Say' in AI's Impact

Nobel Prize-winning economist Daron Acemoglu has expressed concerns that liberal democracy is in crisis, citing the lack of public input in major decisions such as immigration policies. In an interview with BBC Newsnight, Acemoglu argued that liberal democracy worked because people were given a say in how they were governed and then benefited from their country’s economy as it prospered.

Acemoglu warned that the way artificial intelligence is developed and used could make the crisis of liberal democracy worse, by widening inequality and putting people out of work. He emphasized that 6 billion people outside of the US, UK, and China have zero say in how AI will shape their society.

The economist's comments come as part of a broader discussion on the potential negative impact of artificial intelligence on liberal democracy. Acemoglu noted that AI is going to transform every aspect of people's lives, yet they have no say in how it will be developed and used.

## Why it matters The crisis of liberal democracy and the potential negative impact of artificial intelligence are significant concerns, as they affect not only the economy but also the fundamental principles of governance. The lack of public input in major decisions and the unequal distribution of benefits have led to a rise in populism, with many working people feeling that politicians no longer listen to them. As AI continues to shape the world, it is essential to consider the potential consequences of its development and use on liberal democracy.

The Interview, a podcast featuring conversations with people shaping our world, is available on BBC Sounds or wherever you get your podcasts, and on the BBC World Service on Mondays, Wednesdays, and Fridays at 0800 GMT. The podcast has featured episodes with prominent guests, including Indian activist Sonam Wangchuk, South African minister Gayton McKenzie, and New York Times White House correspondent Maggie Haberman.