AI Is Hijacking Our Choices | Johannesburg News

Nobel laureate Maria Ressa warns that AI is already hijacking our attention, exploiting our need for connection, and eroding our autonomy — and unless we act now with bold regulation, it could become unstoppable. Co-chairing a UN AI panel, she argues that regulating tech isn’t censorship but essential public safety, debunking the myth that China’s AI controls are more restrictive than Silicon Valley’s. She outlines AI’s evolution: from social media polarization, to intimate digital manipulation via chatbots, to the ultimate threat — AI acting on our behalf without our consent. Ressa backs lawsuits against Meta and calls for addictive platform features to be dismantled for all users, not just teens. Her solution? Publicly controlled digital spaces — like digital parks — where real conversation thrives, free from corporate influence. Her own outlet, Rappler, has launched one — and wants others to follow. Listen in comfort:Get a discount on a Soli Pillow: http://solipillow.com/discount/dnn. Advertise on DNN:[email protected] This is an automated, high-level news summary based on public reporting.Sources:https://www.sowetan.co.za/news/world/2026-09-15-limit-ai-now-or-humanity-will-lose-its-agency-says-nobel-laureate-ressa/ More coverage & latest updates:https://sources.thednn.ai/bba2b7c8e2c8921a Report issues to [email protected].