A humanist manifesto for the age of AI

Artificial intelligence may be the most transformative technology of our time. As AI’s power grows, so does the need to figure out what—and who—this technology is really for. AI Needs You argues that it is critical for society to take the lead in answering this urgent question and ensuring that AI fulfills its promise.

Verity Harding draws inspiring lessons from the histories of three twentieth-century tech revolutions—the space race, in vitro fertilization, and the internet—to empower each of us to join the conversation about AI and its possible futures. Sharing her perspective as a leading insider in technology and politics, she rejects the dominant narrative, which often likens AI’s advent to that of the atomic bomb. History points the way to an achievable future in which democratically determined values guide AI to be peaceful in its intent; to embrace limitations; to serve purpose, not profit; and to be firmly rooted in societal trust.

Now with a new foreword by the author, AI Needs You gives us hope that we, the people, can imbue AI with a deep intentionality that reflects our best values, ideals, and interests, and that serves the public good. AI will permeate our lives in unforeseeable ways, but it is clear that the shape of AI’s future—and of our own—cannot be left only to those building it. It is up to us to guide this technology away from our worst fears and toward a future that we can trust and believe in.

"Harding sits at the intersection of politics, policy, and technology, and she brings her knowledge to this accessible introduction to AI and how it will shape our workplaces and beyond." - Harper’s Bazaar

"[Harding’s] narrative provides considerable historical context for each tech milestone and draws parallels between the institution of regulatory guardrails and the importance of outlining the safe and ethical use of AI. . . . A loud and clear call to action regarding AI’s future, which is put into perspective by probing the history of three other major technological innovations." - Library Journal ​​​​​​​

"We might hope that this book ends up in the hands of those who could take a leadership role, before it is too late. Harding’s optimism is tempered by experience and knowledge, and her arguments are compelling and engaging." - Kirkus

"Contrary to the doomsayers of modern media, [AI Needs You] shines an optimistic light on the AI revolution." - Choice