Former Google CEO Eric Schmidt booed during graduation speech about AI
Former Google CEO Eric Schmidt booed during graduation speech about AI
https://www.nbcnews.com/tech/tech-news/former-google-ceo-booed-graduation-speech-ai-rcna345585
Publish Date: 2026-05-17 16:45:00
Source Domain: www.nbcnews.com
-
Commencement Speech Context: Former Google CEO Eric Schmidt gave a commencement speech at the University of Arizona, reflecting on technological advancements from the computer to AI.
-
Mixed Impact of Technology: Schmidt highlighted both the positive and negative impacts of technology on society, including democratization of knowledge and degradation of public discourse.
-
Concerns Over AI: Schmidt drew parallels between AI and earlier technological transformations, which led to immediate boos from the audience due to fears surrounding AI’s impact on jobs and society.
-
Future as Unwritten: Despite audience disapproval, Schmidt urged the graduates to have the courage to shape the future, emphasizing freedom, open debate, and embracing a diversity of perspectives, especially those of immigrants.
-
Audience Reaction: The audience booed multiple times during Schmidt’s speech, indicating significant skepticism and concern among students regarding AI.
-
Broader Contextual Tension: This incident mirrored a recent event at the University of Central Florida where another speaker discussing AI was met with similar audience disapproval.
-
Call to Action for Graduates: Schmidt encouraged the graduates to make America the place where ambitious people still want to come, and to take an active role in shaping the future positively.
-
Openness to Debate: Despite the negative reception, Schmidt maintained his focus on the ability of the graduates to make positive changes if they choose a diversity of perspectives.
