Could generative AI turn out to be the tech industry’s Vietnam? And could public backlash lead AI to a better place?

2025-06-07 · Source: Marcus on AI · Field: Technology & Digital — Artificial Intelligence & Machine Learning, Emerging Technologies & Innovation, AI Policy & Governance · Depth: Fundamental Awareness, quick

Summary

A growing backlash against AI is emerging, highlighted by commencement speakers being booed for mentioning AI, including former Google CEO Eric Schmidt. Jason Calacanis drew a parallel between AI and the Vietnam War, suggesting Gen Z's vocal opposition. The author extends this analogy, noting the multi-trillion dollar investment in AI, its ongoing issues like hallucinations and unreliability, and the lack of clear ROI, comparing it to the Vietnam War's "trillion in today's dollars" cost and disastrous outcome. Furthermore, the article points to a significant shift in political stance, with former President Trump reportedly considering AI "preflight checks" similar to FDA regulations, a policy previously advocated by Michelle Rempel Garner and the author. This repositioning, predicted by the author in January 2026, suggests a potential move away from prior anti-regulatory policies due to public backlash.

Key takeaway

For executives overseeing AI investments, the escalating public backlash and potential for significant regulatory shifts, exemplified by former President Trump's policy reconsideration, demand immediate attention. You should critically re-evaluate your organization's AI strategy, focusing on demonstrable ROI and robust safety protocols to mitigate risks. Proactively engaging with emerging regulatory discussions and prioritizing ethical AI development will be crucial for long-term viability and public trust.

Key insights

The growing public backlash against AI, likened to the Vietnam War, is prompting a reevaluation of its massive investment and regulatory approach.

Principles

• Unchecked AI investment risks "arrogance-fueled mistakes."
• Public backlash can drive significant policy shifts.
• AI regulation may mirror FDA-style safety checks.

In practice

• Monitor public sentiment regarding AI adoption.
• Advocate for robust AI safety and regulatory frameworks.
• Evaluate AI investments for clear, demonstrable ROI.

Topics

• Generative AI
• AI Backlash
• AI Regulation
• Public Sentiment
• Investment Risk
• Policy Shift

Best for: CTO, VP of Engineering/Data, Director of AI/ML, Policy Maker, Executive, Tech Journalist

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Editorial summary, takeaway, and curation by AIssential. Original article published by Marcus on AI.