Jill Lepore discusses AI backlash and her upcoming book
Originally published Jul 20, 2026
By Nilay Patel · The Verge
AI-generated summary based on The Verge · Aggregated by OffScreenSpace · Human-reviewed and approved on Jul 20, 2026
Key points
- Lepore emphasizes that backlash is essential for responsible AI evolution.
- Her book examines past institutional failures to manage emerging technologies.
- She links historical resistance movements to current AI debates.
- The discussion underscores the role of public pressure in shaping policy.
Harvard professor and New Yorker writer Jill Lepore talks about the importance of criticism surrounding artificial intelligence as she prepares to release her new book, The Rise and Fall of the Artificial State, on August 25. She argues that public scrutiny can shape policy and prevent unchecked technological expansion.
Lepore highlights historical patterns where institutions resisted change until pressure forced reform, suggesting a similar trajectory for AI governance. The conversation explores how societal pushback may guide ethical frameworks and ensure accountability in future AI development.
Read the original story: The Verge — by Nilay Patel