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Yhn WarMiddle East first seen 4 d ago, last 41 min ago, peak #5

Writer argues AI panic mirrors early capitalism fears

Original: Cognitive Mercantilism: AI panic resembles fears of early capitalism

A new essay titled 'Cognitive Mercantilism' argues that today's anxiety over artificial intelligence closely resembles the fears that surrounded early industrial capitalism. The author, Venkatesh Rao, suggests debates over who owns and controls cognitive labour echo past struggles over trade and manufacturing wealth. The piece is drawing attention for framing AI debates as an economic and political contest rather than purely a technological one.

Why now: The essay offers a fresh economic lens on the AI debate, prompting discussion among technology and policy readers.

Venkatesh RaoContraptionsartificial intelligence

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