Ex-Google CEO Tells Graduates: Your AI Worries Are Valid. Adapt Anyway.

Eric Schmidt faced boos at University of Arizona's May 2024 commencement when defending artificial intelligence. He acknowledged graduates' concerns as reasonable while insisting adaptation is unavoidable. His candid stance—essentially, accept it and move forward—contrasts with other tech leaders who stress human values. Schmidt framed young people as builders of AI's future, not passive victims, signaling how the industry may address growing skepticism.