Artificial intelligence: Why college graduates are booing commencement speakers across the country.

Artificial intelligence: Why college graduates are booing commencement speakers across the country.

Artificial intelligence: Why college graduates are booing commencement speakers across the country.

https://slate.com/technology/2026/05/ai-college-graduation-speakers-eric-schmidt.html

Publish Date: 2026-05-20 15:52:00

Source Domain: slate.com

Certainly! Here is a summary of the article in an unordered list with 6 key points:

  • Graduation Speech Reactions: Recent commencement speeches at several universities saw graduates booing speakers who mentioned artificial intelligence (A.I.) due to the perceived negative impacts it has on their job prospects and overall future.

  • Viral Incidents: Incidents of booing related to A.I. became viral, particularly those speeches by speakers like Gloria Caulfield and Scott Borchetta.

  • Students’ Outlook: University students, especially those nearing graduation, are increasingly anxious about the future, viewing A.I. as a threat to their employment and societal stability rather than a tool that will benefit them.

  • Perception of A.I.: Students are familiar with A.I.’s negative aspects, such as job displacement, ethical concerns, and privacy issues, which contribute to their resistance and vocal dissent against A.I. during these moments.

  • Contrasting Perspectives: Despite the general discontent, not all students are against A.I., and some uses, like using AI for academic purposes, are widespread. However, recent trends show a growing concern among young scholars.

  • Positive Response to Human Touch: Delta CEO Ed Bastian’s admission that he discarded AI-drafted speech in favor of a more personable, human touch was met with applause, indicating that students value genuine human engagement over AI.