Polity Without Politics? Artificial Intelligence Versus Democracy: Lessons From Neal Asher’s Polity Universe

• Published in: Bulletin of science, technology & society technology & society, 2015-06, Vol.35 (3-4), p.76-83
• Main Author: Damnjanović, Ivana
• Format: Article
• Language: English
• ISSN: 0270-4676; 1552-4183
• DOI: 10.1177/0270467615623877

Is it time for politics and political theory to face the challenge of artificial intelligence (AI)? It seems to be the case that political theory constantly lags behind technological developments. With rapid developments in the field of AI, a common estimate is that technological singularity will probably happen in the next 50 to 200 years. Even regardless of the time frame, the very possibility of superhumanly smart AIs poses serious political questions and calls for some serious political decisions. Luckily, some scenarios are already provided by science fiction. The most common trope is that of a hostile AI taking over and destroying/enslaving humanity. Yet there is another path—AI takes over and makes itself a ruler (openly or behind the scenes), but rules in the genuine best interest of humanity. Such a turn of events, as described in Neal Asher’s Polity novels, may be an improvement compared to present political arrangements. It will, however, probably rob us of politics as such.