Through politics, fiction and her latest novel, Stacey Abrams aims to inspire action
NPR's Book of the Day features Stacey Abrams discussing her new novel "Coded Justice," a thriller that explores artificial intelligence in healthcare through the story of an investigative attorney. Abrams explains how her work as both a novelist and political activist allows her to address complex technological and social issues through fiction, making them more accessible to readers while highlighting potential benefits and risks.
The conversation examines how Abrams uses various platforms—including fiction, podcasts, and newsletters—to educate and engage citizens on complicated political and social topics. She discusses her belief that "living is political" and emphasizes how individuals can understand and influence complex issues, encouraging people to move beyond partisan divisions to create meaningful change.
This is a preview of the Shortform summary of the Jul 28, 2025 episode of the NPR's Book of the Day
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1-Page Summary
Stacey Abrams' "Coded Justice" on AI in Healthcare
In her latest novel "Coded Justice," Stacey Abrams explores the complex intersection of artificial intelligence and healthcare through a thriller following Avery Keene, an investigative attorney who tackles tech company issues before they become public scandals. The novel examines both the benefits and potential misuse of AI in healthcare settings, aiming to engage readers while illuminating contemporary challenges.
Abrams' Careers as a Novelist and Activist
Abrams seamlessly combines her roles as both writer and activist in her work. She believes that "living is political," requiring constant negotiation of priorities and sacrifices. Through her fiction, Abrams aims to not only terrify readers about potential dangers but also inspire hope and encourage them to take ownership of complex issues like AI and autocracy. She extends her reach through various platforms, including podcasts and a Substack newsletter.
Abrams On Empowering People to Tackle Complex Issues
Through her diverse media platforms, Abrams works to educate and empower citizens to engage with complicated political and social topics. Her content emphasizes that individuals have both the right and ability to understand and influence complex issues. Abrams encourages her audience to move beyond partisan divisions and embrace their power to effect change, regardless of how intricate the issues may seem.
1-Page Summary
Additional Materials
Actionables
- You can start a book club focused on novels that explore societal issues, like AI in healthcare, to foster discussions on the ethical implications and potential solutions. Gather a group of friends or colleagues, choose a book like "Coded Justice," and meet regularly to dissect the themes, characters' decisions, and how they relate to real-world scenarios. This can lead to a deeper understanding of the complexities of technology in society and encourage proactive thinking about the future.
- Create a personal "action plan" to engage with complex issues by identifying topics you're passionate about, such as AI, healthcare, or political engagement. Break down each topic into smaller, manageable learning goals, like reading articles, watching documentaries, or attending local talks. Set timelines for these goals and track your progress. This structured approach can help you build a solid foundation of knowledge, empowering you to contribute meaningfully to conversations and decisions in these areas.
- Volunteer with organizations that aim to demystify complex topics for the general public. Look for non-profits, educational groups, or community centers that offer workshops or seminars on current issues like AI ethics or political literacy. By assisting in these events, you can help others grasp these subjects, which in turn reinforces your own understanding and commitment to being an informed and active citizen.
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Stacey Abrams' "Coded Justice" on AI in Healthcare
Stacey Abrams' novel "Coded Justice" brings attention to the intricate relationship between artificial intelligence (AI) and healthcare through the lens of a gripping thriller.
Coded Justice: An Avery Keene AI Healthcare Thriller
Avery Keene, Investigative Attorney, Solves Company Issues Before They Go Public
The narrative centers around Avery Keene, an investigative attorney adept at uncovering corporate secrets and addressing issues within tech companies before they become public scandals.
AI's Beneficial and Abusive Uses in Healthcare
"Coded Justice" delves into various aspects of AI's applications within the healthcare sector, casting a light on both its beneficial uses and its potential for abuse.
Abrams ...
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Stacey Abrams' "Coded Justice" on AI in Healthcare
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Actionables
- You can start a book club focused on novels with themes of technology and ethics to foster discussions on AI's impact on society. Gather a group of friends or colleagues who are interested in technology, and use the novel "Coded Justice" as a starting point. Each member can take turns choosing similar themed books for future meetings, which will help you collectively explore the nuances of AI in various sectors, not just healthcare.
- Create a personal "tech ethics journal" where you reflect on your daily interactions with technology. Note down instances where AI influences your life, such as recommendations on streaming services or health apps that track your fitness. This will help you become more aware of the pervasive nature of AI and consider the ethical implications of its use in your own life.
- Volunteer with a local organization that advocates for ethical t ...
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Abrams' Careers as a Novelist and Activist
Abrams deftly intertwines her dual vocations as a writer and activist, using her storytelling to further her commitment to social justice.
Abrams Unites Fiction Writing and Social Justice In one Mission
Abrams: "Living Is Political," Her Fiction Tackles Vital Issues
Abrams passionately believes that living is an inherently political act requiring the negotiation of priorities and sacrifices. Through her nuanced writing, she brings complex real-world conversations into her fiction, aiming to deeply engage readers.
Abrams Uses Fiction to "Terrify, Inspire Hope, and Empower Ownership" Over Complex Issues
In her mission to educate and mobilize, Abrams doesn't shy away from the harrowing aspects of crucial subjects. Through her fiction, she endeavors to evoke a viscer ...
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Abrams' Careers as a Novelist and Activist
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Counterarguments
- Fiction's primary purpose may be seen as entertainment, and some argue that overt political messaging can detract from the storytelling experience.
- The effectiveness of fiction in inspiring real-world change is debatable; some may question whether novels can significantly influence activism or policy.
- There is a risk that political fiction can become didactic or preachy, which might alienate some readers.
- The balance between storytelling and activism can be delicate, and some critics might feel that Abrams' work leans too heavily on one side, potentially compromising the other.
- While Abrams uses multiple platforms to discuss political issues, the reach of these platforms may be limited to audiences already interested in or aligned with her views, which could limit the impact on broader discourse.
- The interpretation of living as a political act is subjective, and some may argue that not all ...
Actionables
- Start a book club focused on novels with social justice themes to foster discussion and awareness. Gather a group of friends or use social media to invite participants who are interested in exploring the intersection of fiction and activism. Choose books that tackle issues you heard about and meet regularly to discuss the characters' experiences and the real-world implications. This can lead to a deeper understanding of the issues and inspire collective action within your community.
- Write a blog or create a social media page where you review books that combine storytelling with activism. Share your thoughts on how the narratives address real-world issues and encourage your readers to reflect on their own views. This not only helps spread awareness but also allows you to actively participate in the conversation, much like the authors you're re ...
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Abrams On Empowering People to Tackle Complex Issues
Stacey Abrams is renowned for using various media platforms to stimulate public engagement with complex political and social topics. Her mission is to fortify citizens with the belief that they hold the power and the responsibility to mold their nation in line with their vision.
Abrams Empowers Citizens to Shape the Country
Through her podcasts, Substack newsletter, and fiction work, Abrams seeks to enlighten and empower her audience. Her content focuses on instilling in listeners and readers the understanding that they possess both the right and the capability to unravel and influence complicated issues.
Abrams Uses Podcasts, Substack, and Fiction to Educate and Empower On Political and Social Issues
Abrams’s podcasts and Substack writings, along with her fictional narratives, serve as educational tools to enable citizens to grasp and engage with political and societal challenges. Her work emphasizes the empowerment of individuals to believe in their authority to shape the future of the country based on their convictions and desires.
Abrams Aids Understanding and Engagement With Complex Issues Li ...
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Abrams On Empowering People to Tackle Complex Issues
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Clarifications
- Substack is an online platform that supports subscription-based content like newsletters, podcasts, and videos. It enables writers to deliver digital content directly to their subscribers. Founded in 2017, Substack has gained popularity as a tool for independent creators to monetize their work and engage with their audience.
- Authoritarianism is a political system where power is concentrated in a central authority, limiting political freedoms and often suppressing opposition. It involves a strong central power that can maintain the status quo through control over various aspects of society. Authoritarian regimes prioritize stability and control, sometimes at the expense of democratic principles and individual liberties. The term can encompass a range of governance styles, from autocratic rule by a single leader to oligarchic systems controlled by a small group.
- Artificial Intelligence (AI) technology involves creating computer systems capable of performing tasks that typi ...
Counterarguments
- While Abrams uses various media to engage the public, some may argue that these platforms have limitations in reach and may not engage all demographics equally.
- The belief that every citizen has the power to shape their nation might overlook systemic barriers that can impede individual agency.
- Empowerment through media is valuable, but it may not substitute for direct political action or policy change, which some critics might see as more effective.
- The focus on individual capability to influence issues may understate the importance of collective action and organized movements.
- Educational content, while helpful, might not be sufficient to equip individuals with the tools needed for real-world political engagement or to navigate complex legal and bureaucratic systems.
- The emphasis on shaping the future based on personal convictions and desires could be critiqued for not adequately addressing the need for compromise and consensus in a pluralistic society.
- Encouraging engagement with issues like authoritarianism and AI is important, but critics might point out that such ...
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