Why College Students Are Booing AI
College students have been booing speakers who mention artificial intelligence at graduation ceremonies. This reaction has been noted at several universities, including the University of Central Florida and the University of Arizona. While some interpret the boos as a rejection of AI, many students actually appreciate the technology's impact on their education.
- ▪Students booed speakers discussing AI at multiple universities during commencement ceremonies.
- ▪The boos were captured on video and shared widely on social media, prompting various interpretations of the students' sentiments.
- ▪Despite the negative reactions, many college students recognize the transformative role of AI in their education.
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IdeasWhy College Students Are Booing AIThe sound of a cosmic howlBy Ian BogostIllustration by The Atlantic. Sources: Getty.May 23, 2026, 7 AM ET ShareSave College students have been booing commencement speakers who dare to mention artificial intelligence. The boos were heard at the University of Central Florida, when Gloria Caulfield, a real-estate executive, called AI “the next Industrial Revolution.” And at the University of Arizona, when former Google CEO Eric Schmidt mentioned “the architects of artificial intelligence,” last year’s Time people of the year.
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