The AI curse

A Virginia county witnessed a startling transformation, as the soaring electricity bills of families doubled. Simultaneously, a vast, windowless structure akin to a shopping mall operated around the clock, serving as an AI data center that devoured more power than the neighboring town. This situation ignited a debate, blending legal jargon with a fundamental political inquiry: do the residents of the county still hold relevance to those who built the facility?

The crux of the matter extends beyond the realm of AI; it delves into the mutually beneficial arrangement upon which contemporary democracy relies.

Democracy, far from being a spontaneous gift bestowed upon citizens, was painstakingly crafted by those who championed justice and equality. Constitutions and electoral systems formed the tangible framework of restrained governance. However, the enduring viability of these rights can be traced back to the collective sacrifices made by workers, women, soldiers, dissenters, and movements that rendered exclusion politically untenable. Their material dependence played a crucial role in solidifying these hard-fought victories.

In an era where the state requires legions of ordinary individuals rather than a select warrior class, it necessitates the recruitment of manpower, tax contributions, and personal sacrifices. The AI curse, as it unfolds in Virginia, serves as a poignant reminder of the intricate interplay between technological advancement, economic prosperity, and the enduring principles of democracy.