The Big Nine

by Amy Webb
The Big Nine cover
Good Books rating 4.23
Technology and Innovation
Technical
  • ID: 2724
  • Added: 2025-10-16
  • Updated: 2025-10-16
  • ISBN: 9781541773745
  • Publisher: Hachette UK
  • Published: 2019-03-05
  • Reviews: 3

The Big Nine delves into the alarming reality that everyday people have little control over the artificial intelligence systems powered by their data. The book reveals how the 'big nine' corporations—Amazon, Google, Facebook, Tencent, Baidu, Alibaba, Microsoft, IBM, and Apple—are prioritizing immediate financial gains over the long-term implications of AI. Amy Webb argues that these corporations are inadvertently building AI systems that may not align with human values and desires, potentially leading to unpredictable and harmful outcomes. /n/n Webb not only highlights the problems but also offers a strategic path forward, advocating for greater regulation, oversight, and a shift in power dynamics to ensure that AI serves humanity rather than the other way around.

Reviews
BDTechTalks · 2020-10-05
compelling 4.50

The book discusses the consequences of the current state of AI and the need for urgent action. The reviewer finds it thought-provoking and well-argued.

The reviewer appreciates 'The Big Nine' for its thorough exploration of the consequences of the current state of AI. They find Webb's arguments compelling and the book's call for urgent action particularly impactful. The reviewer also notes that the book is well-researched and provides a balanced view of both the benefits and risks of AI. They believe it is a crucial read for anyone interested in the future of technology and society.

Quick quotes

    In The Big Nine, Amy Webb discusses the consequences of not fixing the broken state of artificial intelligence.

    The book is a call-to-arms about the broken nature of artificial intelligence.

    Webb's arguments are compelling and well-researched.

Financial Times · 2019-06-20
urgent 4.00

The book reads like a thriller with a bleak outlook, but it provides a clear and jargon-free view of the power and implications of AI. The reviewer appreciates the urgency and clarity of the message.

The reviewer finds that 'The Big Nine' is a compelling read that feels like a thriller, with a somewhat bleak ending. However, they appreciate how Webb breaks down complex topics into accessible insights. The book's urgency and clarity are highlighted, making it a must-read for understanding the current state and future of AI. The reviewer also notes that Webb's ability to simplify complex ideas without jargon is particularly commendable.

Quick quotes

    Webb's book at times reads like a thriller in which the ending looks bleak.

    She affords us a clear, jargon-free view of the power and implications of AI.

    The book is a call-to-arms about the broken nature of artificial intelligence.

Social Work Futures · 2019-04-28
valuable 4.20

The book advances the reader's understanding of the complexities of big tech and AI. The reviewer finds it valuable for broadening their perspective.

The reviewer found 'The Big Nine' to be a valuable resource for understanding the vast and complex discussions surrounding big tech and AI. They appreciate how the book advances their own thinking and provides a deeper understanding of the subject. The reviewer also notes that the book is accessible and thought-provoking, making it a great read for anyone interested in the intersection of technology, politics, and society. They believe it is a must-read for students and professionals alike.

Quick quotes

    I found this book to advance my own thinking/understanding regarding how vast and complex discussions of 'big tech' and AI can be.

    The book is a valuable resource for anyone interested in the intersection of technology, politics, and society.

    It is a must-read for students and professionals alike.

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