The observation that individuals in control of vast technological empires, such as those steering the course of artificial intelligence and mass media, may undergo a transformation as their power escalates is a recurring theme in both historical analysis and contemporary commentary. The proposition that they might "start as normal people and as they grow in power they lose a sense of decency and normality" is a concern rooted in an understanding of human psychology and the corrupting nature of influence.
The Psychology of Power
Scholarly research in psychology provides a substantial basis for this concern. The "iron law of oligarchy," proposed by sociologist Robert Michels, suggests that any political system, regardless of how democratic it starts, will inevitably evolve into an oligarchy where a small number of elites hold power. This concentration of power can have profound effects on an individual's psychology.
Studies have shown that power can:
- Diminish Empathy: Individuals in positions of power often have a reduced ability to understand and share the feelings of others. They may start to see people as instruments to achieve their goals rather than as individuals with their own needs and desires.
- Increase Self-Serving Behavior: Power can lead to a greater focus on personal gratification and a diminished adherence to social norms and ethical considerations. The sense of being "above the law" can become more pronounced.
- Promote a Lack of Perspective-Taking: Those in power may struggle to see the world from the viewpoint of those with less influence. This can lead to decisions that have unforeseen negative consequences for large segments of the population.
- Foster a Belief in One's Own Superiority: The constant validation and deference that come with power can cultivate a sense of personal exceptionalism, leading to an overestimation of one's own abilities and judgment.
The Architects of Our Digital Future
The leaders of companies like X (formerly Twitter), Meta (Facebook), OpenAI (ChatGPT), and Amazon, as well as their counterparts in other nations, wield an unprecedented level of influence over global communication, commerce, and the very fabric of information. Their platforms shape public discourse, influence economies, and are instrumental in the development of artificial intelligence that will have far-reaching societal impacts.
While it is impossible to definitively diagnose the internal psychological state of any individual, the actions and public statements of some of these leaders have raised concerns that align with the known effects of power. Instances of what critics perceive as a disconnect from the daily realities of ordinary people, a relentless pursuit of growth and innovation with seemingly little regard for potential negative externalities, and a defensiveness in the face of criticism are often cited as evidence of this transformation.
The corporate cultures of these technology giants can also reflect the priorities and personalities of their leaders. A focus on disruption and moving "fast and break things," as was an early motto at Facebook, can be seen as a manifestation of a mindset that prioritizes progress, as defined by the company, over potential societal harm. The immense wealth and influence concentrated within these entities create an environment where the perspectives of their leaders are rarely challenged in a meaningful way.
The Global Dimension
This phenomenon is not confined to Silicon Valley. In other countries, leaders of major technology and AI companies operate within different political and cultural contexts, yet the fundamental dynamics of power remain. In some cases, the fusion of corporate power with state interests can create even more potent and less accountable centers of influence. The development of AI in a more authoritarian context, for example, raises distinct ethical questions about surveillance, control, and the definition of "decency" and "normality" itself.
The journey from a "normal" individual to a figure of immense power is often a gradual one. Along the way, the feedback loops that keep most people grounded—accountability to peers, financial constraints, direct experience with the consequences of their actions—can become attenuated. The world they inhabit becomes increasingly curated and insulated, reinforcing the belief in their own vision and diminishing their connection to the lived experiences of those impacted by their creations.
In conclusion, the concern that the titans of the AI and mass media industries may lose a sense of decency and normality as they amass power is not merely speculative. It is a plausible hypothesis grounded in established psychological principles and supported by observable trends in the behavior of powerful individuals and the cultures of the organizations they lead. The sheer scale of their influence in the 21st century makes this a critical issue for societal consideration and a strong argument for robust mechanisms of oversight, accountability, and ethical guidance in the development and deployment of new technologies.
