Historian Jill Lepore says Silicon Valley misreads science fiction and undermines democracy

On Equity, historian Jill Lepore discussed “government by machines” and criticized how Silicon Valley leaders interpret science fiction. She argued that figures like Elon Musk draw the wrong lessons from the genre, using it to justify visions of technology that can sideline democratic accountability.

The conversation reflects growing concern that tech elites are turning speculative narratives into operating blueprints for society. Lepore’s critique highlights the tension between technocratic governance and democratic decision-making as AI and automation gain influence.