Background
Published in 2024, “Code Dependent: Living in the Shadow of AI” by Madhumita Murgia explores how artificial intelligence is already shaping lives around the world, often without consent or awareness. Drawing on global case studies, the book examines the social, economic, and political impact of AI systems on ordinary people, particularly those marginalized by race, class, or geography. Murgia highlights how decisions once made by humans, such as hiring, policing, and access to welfare, are increasingly delegated to algorithms, leading to outcomes that can be opaque, biased, and difficult to contest. Through personal stories and investigative reporting, the book reveals how individuals are monitored, categorized, and sometimes harmed by systems designed to optimize efficiency or profit, raising critical questions about accountability and human rights in a digital age.
My Thoughts
I’m not really sure what the public sees so I’m not certain if the content was public knowledge or not. I’ve been following this topic pretty closely for years so none of it came as shocking as I believe the author may have expected. There certainly is global inequality in pay and safety. I am fortunate to live in the United States and my quality of life is amazing. That is easily taken for granted, which is why I’m a huge proponent of people traveling, more particularly the young adults.
What I believe was missing from the narrative is, what would have been better for these people? There are several case studies in the book about people who are barely making ends meet and who have been taken advantage of by the evil corporation. Yet, each one of them wants to keep their job. There isn’t a better alternative and while I’m certain they would love to paid more, the fact is they are willing to work for the pay they are offered. Since most of this work gets contracted and subcontracted down to the lower levels, the evil corporation has very little to do with their pay. They could easily double or triple what they pay for the same service and the money would never reach that worker. The middle men will happily take the difference and turn around and ask for more.
I honestly believe we are living at one of the best times in history in terms of human rights and quality of life. However, it isn’t equal. It isn’t fair. I believe it will get better, but it will come slowly over time.
Regardless, these issues need to come to the forefront of our collective consciousness. It is important these stories are told so we can move on to bigger and better. There really is no free lunch so the amazing benefits we reap today had to have come from somewhere.
Recommendation
A little heavy handed but not bad.