Empires of AI – By Eric Schmidt and Niall Ferguson (www.foreignaffairs.com)

In their new work, "Empires of AI," Eric Schmidt and Niall Ferguson explore the emergence of the United States and China as dominant powers in the artificial intelligence landscape, likening their influence to historical empires. They argue that control over advanced machine learning technologies, including large language models and associated infrastructure, grants these nations significant economic and geopolitical leverage. This AI dominance extends beyond mere technological superiority, positioning them as gatekeepers of knowledge and innovation, compelling other countries to rely on their capabilities. The authors assert that the race for AI supremacy hinges not just on technological advancements but also on the ability to finance and manage the vast resources required for development. They highlight an inherent imbalance in the AI ecosystem, where a handful of companies and states monopolize advancements while drawing resources from global peripheries. The rapid pace of AI integration into power structures, coupled with the scarcity of critical inputs like energy and data, creates a new kind of imperial dynamic. The outcome may redefine global alliances and shifts in authority, making the ability to harness AI not only a technological feat but a crucial geopolitical strategy.