Longtime AI expert Karen Hao (US) has extensively covered OpenAI since 2019. In her book Empire of AI: Inside the Reckless Race for Total Domination, the award-winning investigative journalist recounts the meteoric rise of OpenAI and shows us the sinister impact that this industry is having on society, tech ethics, and the alarming spike in the need for energy and water required to power it all. Hao’s incisive reporting has put her at top of the list when it comes to voices of influence around this very contemporary, rapidly changing issue.
She joins The Press journalist Victoria Meakin in conversation.
“Empire of AI is a heroic work. Karen Hao is a gifted journalist… If you think the digital future is safe in the hands of brilliant scientists, smart investors, and earnest political leaders, think again.”
Shoshana Zuboff, author of The Age of Surveillance Capitalism.
Presented in partnership with Auckland Writers Festival.
Find out more:
Empire of AI by Karen Hao – Penguin Books New Zealand
Time100 AI 2025 list
