The Algorithm of Power

"The Algorithm of Power" by Erik Conn, also known as AI Erik, is a book emphasizing the critical importance of AI literacy and engagement for Black and Brown communities to avoid being left behind in the rapidly advancing technological revolution. Conn argues that historical exclusion from past technological waves has exacerbated wealth disparities, and a similar pattern with AI would be catastrophic, particularly due to inherent biases in AI systems reflecting a lack of diversity in their creation. The book advocates for proactive participation, from learning effective AI prompting to building AI-powered businesses and models, stressing that AI access should be a fundamental right, not a privilege. Ultimately, Conn urges these communities to actively shape the ethical and developmental trajectory of AI to ensure it serves all humanity, rather than perpetuating existing inequalities.