On June 2nd, a pivotal event in the world of artificial intelligence is set to unfold as Columbia law professor and former FTC Chair Lina Khan joins journalist Karen Hao for a stimulating conversation. This engagement is designed to celebrate the launch of her new book, Empire of AI: Dreams and Nightmares in Sam Altman’s OpenAI. Attendees can expect an in-depth discussion that promises to shed light on the intricate dynamics between technology, regulation, and ethics in the rapidly evolving AI landscape.
### Meet Karen Hao: A Trailblazer in AI Journalism
Karen Hao is no stranger to the world of artificial intelligence. As an award-winning journalist, she has made significant strides in covering the nuances of AI technology, its implications for society, and the industry’s key players. Notably, she was the first journalist to profile OpenAI, a testament to her keen insights into one of the most influential organizations shaping the future of technology.
In her newly released book, Empire of AI, Karen delves into the complexities surrounding AI’s development, its potential benefits, and the looming ethical dilemmas. Her previous experience as a foreign correspondent at The Wall Street Journal focused on AI & China has afforded her a unique perspective on the global interplay of technology and politics. She also served as a senior editor at MIT Technology Review, where her reporting has earned her accolades, including the American Humanist Media Award in 2024 and the National Magazine Award in 2022, recognizing her outstanding contribution to journalism under the age of 30.
Hao’s career began in an engineering role at the first startup to emerge from Google[x], allowing her to bridge the gap between technological innovation and journalistic inquiry. With a B.S. in mechanical engineering and a minor in energy studies from MIT, her background positions her as a formidable voice in understanding AI’s technological foundations.
### Lina Khan: A Regulator with Renewed Vision
Joining Hao on stage will be Lina Khan, a leading figure in antitrust law and a fervent advocate for consumer protection. Khan made headlines during her tenure as Chair of the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) from June 15, 2021, to January 20, 2025. Her work primarily focused on reimagining the FTC’s approach to the challenges posed by modern markets, particularly how technology can disrupt existing regulatory frameworks.
Khan first garnered attention for her academic work on antitrust, where she analyzed market consolidation across various sectors, including airlines and agriculture. Her insights prompted discussions about the power dynamics at play within these markets, raising awareness about the need for robust regulatory mechanisms. During her time at the FTC, she spearheaded initiatives aimed at revitalizing antitrust enforcement and protecting consumer data from invasive surveillance practices.
Before her appointment as Chair, Khan was a key advisor to the U.S. House Judiciary Committee’s Subcommittee on Antitrust, Commercial, and Administrative Law, advocating for reforms that prioritize competition and consumer rights. Now serving as an associate professor of law at Columbia Law School, her academic and practical experiences uniquely position her to contribute meaningfully to the dialogue about AI governance and regulation.
### The Intersection of AI and Regulation
The conversation between Karen Hao and Lina Khan will not only celebrate the launch of a significant book but also address pressing questions about AI’s role in society and the evolving landscape of policy and regulation. As AI technologies become increasingly integrated into everyday life, understanding the nuances of their governance becomes essential.
Both Hao and Khan will likely explore themes from Empire of AI, discussing the challenges that come with rapid technological advancements, ethical considerations, and the responsibility of tech companies in shaping a future where AI serves the public good. As regulatory frameworks struggle to keep pace with the speed of innovation, insights from these two thought leaders will be invaluable for understanding how society can ensure a balanced approach that nurtures innovation while protecting the rights of individuals.
### A Call for Engagement and Learning
This event invites participants to join a critical conversation at a time when the implications of AI are increasingly unavoidable. With thought leaders like Hao and Khan leading the dialogue, attendees can expect to gain a deeper understanding of both the opportunities and risks associated with the rise of AI technologies.
By attending, participants will not only engage with complex topics but also contribute to an ongoing discussion about the future of technology, its regulation, and its impact on society.
Prepare to be inspired and informed as two of the most incisive minds in the field come together to decode the future of AI. Don’t miss the chance to gain insights into a field that will shape our world for years to come.
Inspired by: Source
