Parmy Olson's 'Supremacy: AI, ChatGPT, and the Race That Will Change the World' has won the Financial Times and Schroders Business Book of the Year Award. The book explores the rivalry between Demis Hassabis of Google DeepMind and Sam Altman of OpenAI, detailing their pursuit of AI advancements and the ensuing competition among tech giants. The award, now in its 20th year, recognises works providing compelling insights into modern business issues. Olson received £30,000, while shortlisted authors each received £10,000.
The judges, chaired by Roula Khalaf, praised Olson's deeply reported account, framing AI development as a thrilling race for technological dominance. Peter Harrison highlighted the book's unique insights into the defining technology of our age. The award ceremony featured key figures like Sharon White, former Chairman of John Lewis Partnership. Previous winners include works on semiconductor supremacy and the cyber arms race, marking 'Supremacy' as a significant contribution to understanding AI's impact.
The book investigates the commercial battles and personal stories behind the quest to establish dominance in AI. It underscores the high stakes involved as companies vie to control the future of this transformative technology. The award underscores the importance of understanding AI's implications for business and society.