We have seen many systems of government over the course of centuries.
For the longest time, countries typically were led by autocratic rule - such as via a emperors, kings or similar heads of states.
Another defining factor is that such leaders did not have term limits - they might even rule from when they are children all the way through to old age (or abdicate for whatever reason).
This means, under the right leader, perhaps that country could make consistent progress towards a goal.
However, the largely negative side is that many leaders have other agendas, which are unchecked. They might make controversial decisions, but there is no "opposition" to them.
In modern society, we value democracy, but there are still various subversions of it despite an appearance of being "free and fair".
Countries where there is "one" perceived leader. Countries where leaders are puppets - the real control is behind the scenes. Countries where you do not have a free choice of representatives and leaders. Countries where a false opposition is installed, to keep some semblance of democracy going. Countries where an opposition isn't allowed true freedom of speech to debate ideas.
The list goes on. And through our own perception and biases, it will be easy to classify countries against these.
However, my focus today isn't just about democracy vs autocracy - but it's the fusion of autocracy with AI.
We are hearing a lot about AI agents these days. Many uninformed think that they are just used for helping us draft emails and rewrite copy.
But really, the level of AI agents these days have arguably crossed a threshold, where they are self-learning and self-preserving. This may not entail true "agency" but we are very close - or close enough.
Such agents are not just beneficial as personal assistants or for commercial tasks. Agents can serve any function you program it to - and the more power you give it, the more unchecked it becomes.
So, why is this fusion bad?
Say you have an autocratic ruler. Once upon a time, you probably needed loyalists to carry out your tasks. You need to prevent subversion and sedition.
Well, who needs people these days when the digital era is here. Who needs a person to press a button when that AI can do it for you.
When such a society is deeply integrated with technology already - they are even more susceptible. Think about being prevented from bank withdrawals, making payments, even mobility (limiting your use of transport / drivers / even share bikes).
An autocratic ruler really only needs themselves (and some AI expertise) to be able to enact this. They don't need any loyalists anymore. Further to this, AI can be manipulated into many nefarious tasks simply through their tendency for self preservation.
For many years, we have been squabbling about policies and best way forwards in society. But honestly, it may soon be time to set our differences aside - a greater danger looms, and we need to learn to protect ourselves should particular systems be taken over by AI.