Jill Lepore: Tech Giants Misinterpret Sci-fi, Threaten Democracy

WHO:

TechCrunch - Historian Jill Lepore discusses her new book, "The Rise and Fall of the Artificial State."

TechCrunch - Elon Musk is mentioned as a notable figure in the context of science fiction interpretation.

WHAT:

TechCrunch - Lepore argues that tech leaders misinterpret science fiction warnings as operational manuals.

TechCrunch - The concept of "government by machines" is explored in Lepore's discussions.

WHY:

TechCrunch - Lepore suggests that the misreading of science fiction by tech leaders threatens democracy.

HOW:

TechCrunch - Lepore's insights are shared through a Q&A format in a podcast episode of "Equity."

(UPDATED August 10, 2026 10:21 UTC)

Historian Jill Lepore is making waves with her new book, "The Rise and Fall of the Artificial State," where she discusses how tech leaders, including notable figures like Elon Musk, often misinterpret science fiction warnings as operational manuals. In her discussions, Lepore explores the troubling concept of "government by machines," arguing that this misreading poses a threat to democracy. Her insights are shared in a Q&A format during a podcast episode of "Equity."