Oracle co-founder Larry Ellison has shared a bold and unsettling vision for the future, claiming AI will lead to a vast surveillance system monitoring citizens constantly. Speaking during a recent Oracle financial analysts meeting, the billionaire discussed how artificial intelligence will reshape surveillance tools, stating, “Citizens will be on their best behavior because we are constantly recording and reporting everything that’s going on.”
Ellison, known for his keen interest in technological advancements, emphasized AI’s role in creating an all-seeing society. Oracle, the software company he co-founded, has been aggressively pursuing AI projects, and Ellison’s recent comments suggest a deeper intention behind these technological pursuits. He openly expressed enthusiasm about AI’s capacity to monitor and analyze security footage, police body cameras, doorbell cameras, and even vehicle dashboard cameras.
We’re going to have supervision!
“We’re going to have supervision,” Ellison confidently asserted. His words painted a picture of a future where AI oversees every police officer’s actions, promising that the technology will notify the appropriate authorities whenever a problem arises. This digital watchdog, he believes, will ensure a more compliant citizenry.
Larry Ellison further elaborated on the capabilities of AI-enhanced law enforcement. In his vision, drones will replace traditional police cars in high-speed chases. “You just have a drone follow the car,” he explained, describing the concept as simple in the age of autonomous drones. However, he did not address concerns regarding the privacy implications of such constant, AI-driven surveillance or whether these drones might broadcast live chases on network news.
Oracle has already ventured deep into the AI industry, seeking opportunities to further enhance its technological footprint. The company currently works on various AI projects, including a partnership with Elon Musk’s SpaceX. This aggressive pursuit of AI development aligns with Ellison’s futuristic vision, pushing Oracle to the forefront of a potential AI-dominated surveillance era.
Ethical implications of living in a world where “everything is recorded and reported
With a net worth of $157 billion, Ellison holds a unique position to influence AI’s trajectory. His vision reflects a growing trend among tech giants to explore the use of AI in public surveillance. Yet, it also raises questions about the ethical implications of living in a world where “everything is recorded and reported.”
Ellison’s family has made their mark in different industries. His daughter Megan Ellison founded Annapurna Pictures in 2011, while his son David Ellison is set to become the CEO of Paramount following its merger with Skydance Media. However, it is Larry Ellison’s drive towards an AI-powered future that captures the world’s attention and sparks intense debate.
By endorsing an omnipresent AI surveillance system, Ellison throws light on a potential future where privacy becomes a relic of the past. As Oracle continues its aggressive AI expansion, the public may need to brace for a reality where every move, every action, becomes part of an extensive, automated monitoring network.
Larry Ellison’s statements have already stirred controversy. Many see his remarks as a call for a surveillance state, while others view it as a necessary step to ensure public safety. His focus on using AI as a relentless overseer suggests a shift towards an era where technology, not human judgment, governs societal conduct.
Whether this future aligns with Ellison’s enthusiastic vision or faces public resistance remains to be seen. What is clear, however, is that the AI-driven surveillance landscape he describes is quickly moving from science fiction to reality. As Oracle leads the charge, the world watches with a mix of intrigue and apprehension, awaiting what this next chapter in AI evolution will bring.