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The book takes a critical look at AI, exploring how it functions, the realities behind its rapid expansion, and the social, ethical and environmental implications of its use.
Chico State and Butte College have collaboratively chosen *The AI Con: How to Fight Big Tech’s Hype and Create the Future We Want* (Harper, 2025), authored by linguist Emily Bender and sociologist Alex Hanna, as their designated Book in Common for the 2026-27 academic year. This selection is particularly timely, given the increasing public and academic interest and ongoing debates surrounding artificial intelligence technologies within the realm of higher education. The book itself is presented as a thought-provoking and critical analysis of AI, deeply investigating how artificial intelligence systems operate, shedding light on the underlying realities of its rapid global expansion, and thoroughly examining the extensive social, ethical, and environmental implications associated with its widespread implementation and use. The critical topics explored within *The AI Con* include the significant impact of AI on various job markets and creative industries, emerging concerns regarding academic integrity in an AI-driven educational landscape, and the substantial environmental costs incurred by the vast data centers essential for powering large-scale AI operations. Kristen Mahlis, who serves as the coordinator for the Book in Common Program and is a professor within Chico State’s Department of Ethnic, Gender, and Queer Studies, emphasized that the book aims to equip readers with a comprehensive understanding of not just what AI is capable of, but crucially, how it functions. This insight encourages individuals to critically evaluate both the often-hyped promises and the genuine, tangible consequences of artificial intelligence. To kick off the program, a 'Turning the Page' event is scheduled for May 12, featuring prominent speakers including University President Steve Perez, Butte College President Virginia Guleff, and Chico State professors Mark Stemen and Zach Justus. Furthermore, both authors, Emily Bender (a distinguished linguistics professor at the University of Washington) and Alex Hanna (a former Google employee), are scheduled to visit the Chico State campus on April 7, 2027. Their visit will include a series of interactive events, such as student discussions, a campus luncheon, and a public lecture, fostering direct engagement with the academic community. The Book in Common program, celebrating its third decade, is dedicated to fostering open dialogue and promoting a shared intellectual experience across both Chico State and Butte College campuses, extending its reach to the broader regional community. The program actively encourages participation from students, faculty, and community members, with numerous local organizations and book clubs joining the annual conversation. Looking toward the future, organizers are committed to enhancing student access to the chosen text, exploring innovative options like providing free digital copies of the book to incoming students, and developing new opportunities for students from diverse disciplines to become more involved in the book selection process itself, ensuring the program's continued relevance and intellectual vibrancy.