An opinion piece in Le Monde argues that the rise of artificial intelligence is creating a new class of extremely powerful and wealthy tech leaders—figures behind companies like OpenAI, Anthropic, and SpaceX. As these firms approach massive valuations—potentially in the trillions—they are not just technological leaders but emerging centers of financial and societal power.
The article argues that this concentration of wealth and influence will inevitably trigger public resentment and backlash. Just as earlier tech billionaires faced criticism, AI leaders are likely to be “hated” not only for their immense fortunes but also for how deeply they are transforming society. Concerns include job displacement, resource consumption (like energy-hungry data centers), and the psychological and social effects of AI systems.
There are already early signs of this tension. The piece notes growing anxiety and even hostility toward AI figures, reflecting a broader fear that society is undergoing one of the largest transformations in history. AI is not just another industry shift—it is reshaping work, economics, and daily life, often faster than institutions and policies can adapt.
Interestingly, some AI leaders are trying to address this looming backlash by proposing solutions such as wealth redistribution mechanisms, shorter workweeks, and taxes on automated labor. These ideas suggest an awareness that the benefits of AI may otherwise be concentrated among a few. The key takeaway is stark: AI’s success could bring unprecedented prosperity—but unless managed carefully, it may also lead to deep inequality, social tension, and widespread distrust of those who control it.
