Sherry Turkle, a psychologist and MIT professor, explores the intricate relationship between technology and human identity. She discusses how digital communication can erode empathy and genuine connections, urging a balance between tech use and real interactions. The conversation dives into how social media algorithms manipulate emotions and create disconnection, prompting a reflection on our digital identities. Turkle emphasizes the importance of navigating this landscape mindfully to foster meaningful relationships in a world increasingly dominated by machines.
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question_answer ANECDOTE
Freudian Slips vs. Glitches
Sherry Turkle recounts a classroom experience where a computer scientist challenged the interpretation of Freudian slips.
The scientist argued that slips are merely mechanical glitches, like a dropped bit, rather than meaningful expressions of the unconscious.
question_answer ANECDOTE
Tron vs. Bambi
Sherry Turkle recalls attending the premiere of Tron with Marvin Minsky, who saw the film as a validation of the mind-as-machine metaphor.
Minsky argued children would prefer Tron to Bambi, as robots offer immortality, unlike the death of Bambi's mother.
insights INSIGHT
Embodied Machines
Humans are complex machines shaped by embodiment, lifecycle, and experiences.
These experiences create a specific human condition that goes beyond mere mechanistic glitches.
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A Psychiatrist Explores Antidepressant Drugs and the Remaking of the Self
Peter D. Kramer
In 'Listening to Prozac,' Peter D. Kramer discusses the philosophical, ethical, and social consequences of using psychopharmacology to change one's personality. The book examines how Prozac and similar antidepressants affect mood and personality, raising questions about what constitutes mental illness and the implications of medication-induced personality changes. Kramer presents case studies and explores the concept of 'cosmetic pharmacology,' where medications can shape and perfect minds, similar to how plastic surgery shapes bodies. The book delves into the broader societal and ethical issues surrounding the use of antidepressants beyond treating depression, including their potential use in healthy individuals to enhance personality traits.
The Empathy Diaries
Sherry Turkle
Advances in technology have gradually been extending the human self beyond its biological extent, as we augment who we are with a variety of interconnected devices. There are obvious benefits to this — it lets us text our friends, listen to podcasts, and not get lost in strange cities. But as it changes how we interact with other people, it’s important to consider the possible downsides. Sherry Turkle is a psychologist and writer who specializes in the relationship between humans and their technology. She makes the case for not forgetting about empathy, conversation, and even the occasional imperfection in how we present ourselves to the world.
Sherry Turkle received her Ph.D. in sociology and personality psychology from Harvard University. She is currently Abby Rockefeller Mauzé Professor of the Social Studies of Science and Technology in the Program in Science, Technology, and Society at MIT, founding director of the MIT Initiative on Technology and Self, and a licensed clinical psychologist. Among her awards are a Guggenheim Fellowship, a Rockefeller Humanities Fellowship, the Harvard Centennial Medal, and she was named “Woman of the Year” by Ms. Magazine. Her new book is The Empathy Diaries: A Memoir.
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