With everything going on today, it’s hard not to feel the impact of massive changes. From the growing influence of artificial intelligence to the erosion of trust in our institutions, we’re at a critical moment. 

But as historian Yuval Noah Harari points out in his book Nexus, this isn’t a new problem. Throughout history, the way we’ve used information has shaped and sometimes destabilized societies. Harari’s message is clear: we’ve wielded information for both good and bad. Now, once again, we face decisions about how to use it.

Over the past 100,000 years, we’ve gained immense knowledge and power. Yet here we are, on the brink of ecological collapse, with misinformation spreading rapidly, and AI changing the flow of information in ways we’re still trying to comprehend. Harari reminds us that information isn’t just raw truth or a weapon — it’s more than that. It’s something that ties us to our shared humanity, and that’s exactly what we need to reconnect with now.

Democracy, as Harari sees it, is an information network that has always depended on shared trust and open debate. But today, that trust is eroding. Misinformation and disinformation are spreading like never before, fueled by algorithms on social media and automated content. While these technologies offer incredible opportunities, they also pose significant risks to the democratic process.

But it’s not all doom and gloom. This isn’t the time to lose hope; it’s the time to act. We can still take control of how information is used and restore trust in our institutions.

Looking at history, Harari shows us that societies have faced similar crises before. Think of the witch hunts, Stalinism, or even the rise of populism today. In each case, those in power manipulated information for their own gain. But history also shows that, at times, humanity took a different path, one where collaboration, truth-seeking, and ethical leadership triumphed. That’s the choice we face now. AI and information manipulation may seem overwhelming, but we can ensure these tools are used for the public good — not to tear us apart.

The solution lies in active citizenship. It’s tempting to become passive in the face of all this, but democracy only works when we engage. We need to stay alert, hold leaders and institutions accountable, and push for systems, whether political or technological, that are fair, transparent, and grounded in ethics. Harari points out that information alone isn’t enough; it’s about how we use and share it. It’s about making sure it brings us together, not divides us.

There’s plenty of reason to be hopeful. Harari talks about a “hopeful middle ground,” where we can use information to rediscover our shared humanity. In times of crisis, it’s easy to fall into fear or division, but history proves that when we come together with a common purpose, we can overcome even the toughest challenges.

What we need now is a renewed sense of civic responsibility, a commitment to truth, and ethical leadership. In this age of AI, misinformation, and political polarization, we’re all part of the information network. Each of us plays a role in ensuring our information systems serve the greater good, not become tools of division or control.

The choices we make now will shape the future of our democracy, our institutions, and maybe even the survival of our planet. Let’s choose wisely. The road ahead might be tough, but we have the tools we need: our ability to collaborate, adapt, and commit to truth and fairness. If we rise to the occasion with civility, action, and hope, we can ensure that the best days of democracy are still ahead of us.