AI Superpowers

Kai-Fu Lee identifies himself as VC investor. He states that, as a venture capitalist, he is obligated to “give speeches about artificial intelligence (AI) to members of the global business and political elite” (7). He also has opportunities to teach kindergarteners about the same topic, which he enjoys. He notes that both groups ask the same questions about the roles machines will play in the future and how humans will coexist with them.

Lee states that AI is leaving the realm of science fiction and becoming a practical matter. Because many people now interact with AI on a daily basis, we are becoming more focused on it. He also notes that, in just three short years (from the time of writing), China went from being “decades” behind the US’s work with AI to rivaling it.

The introduction concludes by likening adults to the kindergarteners who ask questions about our coexistence with “robots.” Lee asserts that we are just as uncertain about the future of AI as those children. While there are no clear answers to these queries, Lee hopes AI Superpowers will explain “how we got here” (8) and spark conversations about what to do next.