Renowned historian Yuval Noah Harari has returned with a timely and thought-provoking book that explores the intricate relationship between artificial intelligence (AI), truth, and the future of human society. Harari, who gained global fame with his bestselling book Sapiens, delves into how AI could reshape how information is processed, shared, and interpreted.

AI and the Concept of Truth

Harari challenges the traditional notion that more information leads to greater truth. In his latest work, he warns that AI could contribute to the spread of misinformation and manipulate the public’s perception of reality. Drawing on historical insights, Harari compares AI’s potential influence to the role of religious texts in shaping societies, arguing that both AI and holy books strive to create an infallible authority.

The Political Risks of AI

The book also examines the political implications of AI, with Harari warning that the technology could fuel totalitarian regimes and disrupt democratic processes. He discusses how AI-powered disinformation could undermine elections and lead to political instability.

A Broader Look at History and Technology

Harari’s narrative spans millennia, offering a wide-ranging analysis of how technology has historically shaped human society. From ancient religious texts to modern-day AI, Harari connects the dots between past and present, providing readers with a fresh perspective on how information networks evolve.

AI as a “New God”?

One of Harari’s most controversial ideas is that AI may act as a “new god,” influencing human decisions and behavior in unprecedented ways. He raises concerns that AI’s growing role in society could lead to the creation of dangerous myths and political movements.