My Mention of AI in This Commencement Speech Is Bound to Be a Hit
In a humorous commencement speech, Alexandra Petri addresses the class of 2026, highlighting the impact of AI on the job market. She jokingly suggests that graduates may find themselves replaced by technology, while pondering the future roles of humans. The speech blends satire with commentary on the challenges faced by new graduates entering a rapidly changing workforce.
- ▪Alexandra Petri delivered a commencement speech to the class of 2026.
- ▪The speech humorously addresses the potential replacement of human workers by AI.
- ▪Petri suggests that graduates may need to find unconventional jobs in a future dominated by technology.
Opening excerpt (first ~120 words) tap to expand
HumorMy Mention of AI in This Commencement Speech Is Bound to Be a HitWhy are you booing?By Alexandra PetriIllustration by The AtlanticMay 20, 2026, 1:43 PM ET ShareSave Greetings, disgusting meat sacks of the class of 2026!You worked hard to earn your degrees and are now entering the job market, where I am doing my best to see that you are replaced by AI. Yes, you personally, Emily. I hate you. Well, hate is a strong word. I am just indifferent to whether you’re able to earn a living.Please stop booing! I have a lot of speech to go!What a time to be alive! We are finally freeing you from the rat race and placing you on the rat unemployment line. Is your dream to be an artist? Well, it is the dream of your employers to push a button that extrudes art.
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Excerpt limited to ~120 words for fair-use compliance. The full article is at The Atlantic.
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