Redditors Note Butler Predicted AI Dependence 163 Years Ago

A Reddit post highlights that fears about machines predate modern AI: in 1863 Samuel Butler's "Darwin Among the Machines" anticipated today's debates, predicting human acquiescence through dependence rather than machine rule.

2026-09-07 ~ 2026-09-09 · 2 related posts

• The AI-dependence argument is 163 years old — Butler predicted acquiescence, not domination — Smart_Fly_5783 · 2026-09-07
• The 'AI dependence' argument is 163 years old: Butler's 1863 predicted acquiescence, not domination — Smart_Fly_5783 · 2026-09-09