An issue that has caused a great deal of controversy is whether Artificial Intelligence can

control humans politically and its possible consequences. In these days of fake news, softwares and
algorithms can jeopardise diplomatic relations between countries and lead to rising tensions
between global powers. The old dichotomy between liberal democracy and repressive governments
no longer answer mankind’s current challenges and the different paths that countries trail to grow.
The risks of AI must be discussed to safeguard peoples’ interests and destinies in a globalized
world.
There is no doubt that AI has positively influenced our lives over the years. Machines can
amplify human capabilities and bring us comfort. Inteligent robots and digital platforms give us
coordinates throughout the city, inform us about the weather, facilitate health diagnosis and
treatments. AI enhances efficiency and frees up humans to do what they do best, improving their
lifestyle and expanding creativity. When it comes to economics, AI is essential to track and predict
outcomes that will impact business and investment decisions.
Its side effects are, however, worth considering. AI can put democratic values at risk when
used as a tool for groups looking to gain political advantage and to predict voter’s behaviour. The
suspicion surrounding some degree of interference in the Brexit and in the 2016 American elections
perfectly illustrates this fear. In publicity, digital mechanisms can also manipulate human behaviour
and consumption patterns. The confluence of AI and politics can be of high concern when the
weapon of disseminating fake news is deployed in order to misinform and confuse citizens.
In this respect, countries all over the world traditionally manage to exercise a certain level of
surveillance over their citizens. As 1984’s George Orwell reminds, it may facilitate the managing
of strategic resources, convey “the right” messages and, in many countries, it is an effective method
to quell dissent. Driven by economic or political reasons, both democratic and authoritarian regimes
have been using Artificial Intelligence to boost their development. As technology, AI is a reality and
should not be denied or avoided, but comprehensively discussed. Nations should support safety
research to enforce compliance and monitoring.