Interesting read for sure. I always try to get to the “String Theory” in all the domains I’m involved in. A theory helps calm the chaos. I think you’re underplaying the geopolitical motivations for China. DeepSeek's open-source model is a sophisticated geopolitical instrument. It effectively challenges American tech hegemony by empowering other nations with a cheaper, sovereign alternative to U.S. AI, thereby fracturing (divide and rule) the global AI landscape. Who believes China isn’t a colonial power. For many countries, especially in the Global South, it represents a strategic choice. A way to escape potential dominance by American companies, even if it introduces different sets of considerations regarding data, governance, and alignment with China's digital policy framework.
Sunil, totally agree with you that the geopolitical layer is impossible to ignore. What fascinates me about DeepSeek is exactly what you point out: it is both a technological artifact and a geopolitical one. Most countries aren’t choosing between America and China. They’re choosing between dependency on one ecosystem versus bargaining power across two. In that sense, DeepSeek’s biggest impact isn’t “divide and rule.” It’s “divide and negotiate.” Great comment. Thanks for pushing the discussion to that next layer.
Interesting read, thanks Howard! Disruptive innovation has a pattern. It seems industries are not brave to adapt or humble to ook for and become the next newest. I guesss the hope and high of success is too enticing. Enjoyed the article and can see that Clay was an insightful mind to be around.
Thank you so much for taking the time to read and share your thoughts—I really appreciate it! You’re spot on that disruptive innovation often gets held back more by systems and incentives than by any actual lack of technology. Clay used to remind us that established players usually have everything they need, but they’re just not ready—or willing—to shake up their own successful models. It really comes down to having the humility and courage to step away from the comforts of the high-margin status quo.
I love how you put it: “the hope and high of success is too enticing.” Thank you again for your kind words, and I’m so glad the article resonated with you!
It's fascinating how AI innovation is playing out like a real-world chess game. It makes you realize how complex and strategic these tech developments are - it's not just about cool algorithms, but about smart positioning.
Interesting read for sure. I always try to get to the “String Theory” in all the domains I’m involved in. A theory helps calm the chaos. I think you’re underplaying the geopolitical motivations for China. DeepSeek's open-source model is a sophisticated geopolitical instrument. It effectively challenges American tech hegemony by empowering other nations with a cheaper, sovereign alternative to U.S. AI, thereby fracturing (divide and rule) the global AI landscape. Who believes China isn’t a colonial power. For many countries, especially in the Global South, it represents a strategic choice. A way to escape potential dominance by American companies, even if it introduces different sets of considerations regarding data, governance, and alignment with China's digital policy framework.
Sunil, totally agree with you that the geopolitical layer is impossible to ignore. What fascinates me about DeepSeek is exactly what you point out: it is both a technological artifact and a geopolitical one. Most countries aren’t choosing between America and China. They’re choosing between dependency on one ecosystem versus bargaining power across two. In that sense, DeepSeek’s biggest impact isn’t “divide and rule.” It’s “divide and negotiate.” Great comment. Thanks for pushing the discussion to that next layer.
Cheaper models does not need powerful GPU then…
Interesting read, thanks Howard! Disruptive innovation has a pattern. It seems industries are not brave to adapt or humble to ook for and become the next newest. I guesss the hope and high of success is too enticing. Enjoyed the article and can see that Clay was an insightful mind to be around.
Thank you so much for taking the time to read and share your thoughts—I really appreciate it! You’re spot on that disruptive innovation often gets held back more by systems and incentives than by any actual lack of technology. Clay used to remind us that established players usually have everything they need, but they’re just not ready—or willing—to shake up their own successful models. It really comes down to having the humility and courage to step away from the comforts of the high-margin status quo.
I love how you put it: “the hope and high of success is too enticing.” Thank you again for your kind words, and I’m so glad the article resonated with you!
It's fascinating how AI innovation is playing out like a real-world chess game. It makes you realize how complex and strategic these tech developments are - it's not just about cool algorithms, but about smart positioning.
I am so glad that you like the piece, Cherry!
I really enjoyed reading this article. Great insight! I wish Clay was still living.
Thank you, John! It's true that we all need more solid theory from people like him.
Great stuff, Howard!
Thank you Sam!
Excellent and eye opening article, Howard.
Thank you so much Jayantraj. That's very kind.