The Bitter Struggle: Superintelligence, Superpowers, and the Fate of the World

The Bitter Struggle: Superintelligence, Superpowers, and the Fate of the World features Ben Buchanan in conversation with David E. Sanger about artificial intelligence, national security, and the future of global power. Buchanan, an assistant professor at Johns Hopkins’ School of Advanced International Studies and a former White House special adviser for artificial intelligence, will discuss his new book with Sanger, a White House and national security correspondent for The New York Times.

The conversation will examine AI as a potentially decisive strategic technology and its consequences for governments and society. Topics include whether the United States can prevent China from catching up in AI development, whether export controls merely delay that outcome, what could happen if a small number of private AI laboratories develop capabilities beyond those of governments, and how democracies can ensure that AI reflects their values.

When: November 11, 2026

Showtimes: 10:30–11:30 a.m. EST

Venue: Room 822, Johns Hopkins University Bloomberg Center, 555 Pennsylvania Ave. NW, Washington, D.C. 20001

Participants: Ben Buchanan, School of Advanced International Studies assistant professor and former White House special adviser for artificial intelligence; David E. Sanger, White House and national security correspondent for The New York Times

Tickets: Free

Registration: Registration is required; advance registration is requested.

Audience: The general public, Johns Hopkins faculty, staff, and students

Contact: Strategic Studies–Alperovitch Institute at kfludd1@jh.edu or 202-663-5703