Work–life balance leaves no room for civic life. In chasing equilibrium, we outsourced the public to the private, expecting some magical force to handle what we no longer have time for. Those who cannot find balance—because “life” includes work, family, and citizenship alike—begin to long for an automated savior: an AI government, an algorithmic society that promises prosperity and the bright cleanliness of a Tomorrowland. But automation of governance will not enrich life; it will hollow it out. It takes more away than it gives, stripping texture, friction, and responsibility. The only way to live is to participate fully in all aspects of life—and the tragedy of progress is that the more we advance, the fewer of those aspects remain within reach.