Jill Lepore critiques tech companies for undermining democracy in new book

Aug 9, 2026

AI Summary

Historian Jill Lepore argues in her upcoming book that technology firms are increasingly usurping the roles of democratic governments, leading to a potential return to tyranny. She emphasizes that this shift is not merely about technology itself but the growing influence of corporations in governance, which she believes lacks public consent.

Jill Lepore's book, titled 'The Rise and Fall of the Artificial State,' discusses how tech companies are replacing democratic functions.
Lepore warns that this trend represents a return to tyranny, characterized by governance through algorithms and corporate power.
She distinguishes her critique from being anti-technology, focusing instead on how private corporations have taken over state functions without public consent.
Lepore highlights the influence of Silicon Valley leaders, particularly Elon Musk, who she believes misinterpret science fiction narratives.
The concept of the 'artificial state' is presented as a replacement for the liberal democratic nation-state, which Lepore argues is an inevitable failure.
She reflects on historical discussions about technology's role in democracy, noting that many innovations were initially well-intentioned but have led to unintended consequences.
Lepore critiques the notion that technological change equates to progress, suggesting that moral progress should also be considered.
The book also explores how science fiction has historically predicted the rise of the artificial state, illustrating societal anxieties about technology's evolution and its potential to dominate human life.

silicon valleydemocracyscience fictionjill le poreelon musk

Jill Lepore critiques tech companies for undermining democracy in new book

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