> This reminds me so much of present-day generative AI criticisms.

I don't think that is a coincidence, it is precisely what the article wants you to think:

In “Flashes of Brilliance,” Anika Burgess takes us back to the 19th century to showcase the artists and innovators who developed the revolutionary technology.

By tying the invention to "artists", the whole piece is framed as having the endorsement of artists. The whole article is there to frame criticism of new technology as misguided, while cleverly not mentioning "AI".

Normally I wouldn't be that suspicious, but the book and the article came out in 2025.

Now, how about an article on the miracles of DDT technology, which was the best insecticide in the world?