What If We Got AI Right? Book Review: Avoiding Apocalypse 2026

Daniel Harrolds
What If We Got AI Right? Book Review: Avoiding Apocalypse
This page may contain affiliate links.

In What If We Got AI Right?, AI ethicist Eleanor Drage challenges the apocalyptic narratives surrounding artificial intelligence. She argues that to thrive with AI, we must recognize the human labor behind it—from silicon mines to data labeling—and shift focus from doomsday scenarios to practical safety measures.

Why This AI Book Stands Out

Unlike typical tech critiques, Drage’s book demystifies AI by grounding it in reality. She exposes how “the cloud” is just someone else’s computer and how “hallucinations” are system errors, not magic. This perspective empowers readers to question tech giants’ promises.


25% Off All iHerb Brands

Find Bleeding Edge Supplements at Scandalous Prices on iHerb.


Drage, a Cambridge researcher, debunks AI recruitment tools and warns against AI in law enforcement. Her evidence-based approach makes this a must-read for anyone concerned about AI’s societal impact.

ADVERTISEMENT

Key Themes and Arguments

AI’s Hidden Human Cost

Drage emphasizes that AI is not a mystical force but a product of exploited labor. She calls for recognizing this “humanity” to better regulate the industry.

Beyond Apocalypse and Utopia

The book argues that Silicon Valley’s binary narrative—AI saves us or destroys us—is a distraction. Real conversations about data rights and model training are more urgent.

Prioritizing Real-World Risks

Drage contends that AI safety shouldn’t overshadow climate change, inequality, or geopolitical tensions. Addressing these would also reduce AI-related risks.

Comparison: Drage’s View vs. Mainstream AI Narratives

Aspect Drage’s Perspective Mainstream Tech Narrative
AI Nature Human-made, fallible Mystical, superintelligent
Primary Risk Corporate power, labor exploitation Existential apocalypse
Solution Focus Citizen control, regulation Tech self-governance

Key Takeaways for Readers

  • AI is a product of human labor, not an alien intelligence.
  • Apocalyptic hype distracts from practical safety measures.
  • Citizens need more power over data and AI training.
  • AI risks are linked to broader societal issues.

Why You Should Read This Book

If you’re tired of extreme AI predictions, Drage offers a balanced, actionable path forward. Her research-backed arguments provide a refreshing antidote to tech hype.

ADVERTISEMENT

Whether you’re a policymaker, tech enthusiast, or concerned citizen, this book will change how you think about AI. It’s a call to action for a safer, more equitable digital future.

Final Thoughts

Eleanor Drage’s work is a timely reminder that AI’s future isn’t predetermined. By understanding its human roots, we can shape it for the better.

FAQ

What is the main argument of 'What If We Got AI Right?'

Drage argues that AI is a product of human labor, and we must focus on practical safety and regulation rather than apocalyptic or utopian visions.

Who is Eleanor Drage?

Eleanor Drage is an assistant research professor at the University of Cambridge’s Leverhulme Centre for the Future of Intelligence, specializing in AI ethics.

How does the book address AI safety?

It suggests giving citizens more control over data use and AI training, and prioritizing broader societal issues like climate change and inequality.

ADVERTISEMENT
Daniel Harrolds

Author

Daniel Harrolds

With a career spanning four decades, Daniel is almost a library in the field of precious metals investing and Gold IRAs. His insightful strategies and pragmatic results-oriented approach make him a resource in safeguarding wealth, and financial foresight.


SPONSORED

Get Lifetime Access to the Lastest Movies, with Exclusive Offers & Free Express Order Delivery.

The best paddle surf board isn't at Decathlon: it's this one with thousands of accessories and outlet pricing - Grand Goldman

The best paddle surf board isn't at Decathlon: it's this one with thousands of accessories and outlet pricing - Grand Goldman

Even if you keep up a great workout routine all year round, when vacation time comes, we usually tend to slack off and put training aside. A good w...

Read
This is the best time to get cheap, good running shoes: here's why - Grand Goldman

This is the best time to get cheap, good running shoes: here's why - Grand Goldman

Running is an accessible sport and we only need a little time and a good pair of running shoes to get going, which we can find right now at a good ...

Read
Sports sunglasses: which is the best to buy? Tips and recommendations - Grand Goldman

Sports sunglasses: which is the best to buy? Tips and recommendations - Grand Goldman

The sun gives us energy that is vital for our system, but it can also harm us, which is why protection is vital. As Paracelsus said: the dose makes...

Read
The best folding stationary bikes: which one to buy? Tips and recommendations - Grand Goldman

The best folding stationary bikes: which one to buy? Tips and recommendations - Grand Goldman

When looking for a way to stay in shape from the comfort of our own home, few options are better than getting an exercise bike or a recumbent bike ...

Read
Pull-up bar: which one is best to buy? Tips and recommendations - Grand Goldman

Pull-up bar: which one is best to buy? Tips and recommendations - Grand Goldman

Pull-ups are undoubtedly one of the best exercises you can do to train your back and core muscles. Choosing a pull-up bar is not simple, as there a...

Read
Sports headphones: which is the best to buy? Tips and recommendations - Grand Goldman

Sports headphones: which is the best to buy? Tips and recommendations - Grand Goldman

There are times when exercising can get a bit boring and tedious; not every day we are and we need an external stimulus to encourage us to train. ...

Read
Sports Sunglasses: Which Is Best to Buy? Tips and Recommendations - Grand Goldman

Sports Sunglasses: Which Is Best to Buy? Tips and Recommendations - Grand Goldman

The sun provides us with energy that is vital for our system, but at the same time, it can be harmful. As Paracelsus said: the dose makes the poiso...

Read
These are the best thermal bottles to stay hydrated during this heat wave while we train in summer - Grand Goldman

These are the best thermal bottles to stay hydrated during this heat wave while we train in summer - Grand Goldman

We are experiencing one of the toughest weeks of summer, with places in the country reaching nearly 45º, making going outside dangerous, and even m...

Read
Adidas Salomon Reebok: the best deals on running and training shoes on Amazon Prime Day - Grand Goldman

Adidas Salomon Reebok: the best deals on running and training shoes on Amazon Prime Day - Grand Goldman

Finally, the Prime Day 2023 has begun, where we can find great deals on the Amazon website between July 11 and 12. We are sure that sports enthusia...

Read
Adidas, Puma, Reebok: the best deals on running and training shoes on Amazon Prime Day - Grand Goldman

Adidas, Puma, Reebok: the best deals on running and training shoes on Amazon Prime Day - Grand Goldman

Finally, Prime Day 2023 has begun, where we can find great deals on the Amazon website between July 11 and 12. Sports enthusiasts are sure to want ...

Read

ADVERTISEMENT




SPONSORED