How AI divided New York's democratic socialists
The industry is definitely bad! Socialists disagree on why.
The New York City chapter of the Democratic Socialists of America (DSA) finds itself divided over the impact of artificial intelligence (AI). Some members argue that AI poses a significant threat, potentially leading to mass automation and uncontrollable systems, while others dismiss these concerns as mere hype. The rift within the largest DSA chapter centers on whether the chapter should acknowledge the potential risks associated with AI, particularly after recent AI-powered hacks.
The chapter's Tech Action Working Group (TAWG) argues that dire warnings of doom are an attempt to inflate company valuations, while some members and tech leaders, including Sen. Bernie Sanders, warn that without guardrails, AI could lead to human extinction. The chapter's resolution, proposed in September, calls for the "democratization and socialization of AI," but an amendment to the measure removed this phrase, leaving the group mired in procedural infighting.
The DSA is also grappling with its use of AI technology, with some members banning generative AI for DSA purposes. The debate over AI mirrors the broader left-wing conversation about regulation and oversight, with some progressives cautioning against doomerist rhetoric while others emphasize the need for regulation and oversight.
Written by urgent.news from Semafor's reporting — not their text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.
