Nick Srnicek: The Rise of Silicon Empires

Beyond the hype of AI capabilities lies a fierce geopolitical and corporate struggle to build the next global empire. This talk unpacks the new logics of corporate expansion across the AI stack, conceptualizing AI as a general-purpose technology. Historically, the firms behind such technologies have faced immense challenges not only in driving adoption but, more critically, in capturing its value. In different ways, the big AI firms of today are all charting paths to overcome these problems – leading to a series of distinct expansionary strategies.

This corporate competition, in turn, is inextricably linked to the geopolitical rivalry between the United States and China. The presentation will critically assess the 'AI race' narrative, questioning its accuracy and exploring the complex interplay between national strategies and private sector interests. Ultimately, the talk aims to provide a new framework for understanding the strategic landscape of this critical 21st-century technology and the powerful forces shaping our digital future.

Book presentation with the author facilitated by the Institute of Social Research and the research area »Sociology of Digital Transformation and Work«