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Jobst Landgrebe, a Senior Research Associate in the Department of Philosophy
at the University at Buffalo specialising in the philosophy of AI, complex
systems, and the ontology of physics and mathematics, elaborates on the
concept of "hype cycles" which he explores in his book "The Hype Cycle."
Jobst describes hype cycles as cultural and scientific phenomena that are used
to govern societies in the absence of traditional faith or fear-based governance.
He argues that these cycles are often manufactured by elites to create a state
of emergency, compelling people to conform to certain political agendas. Jobst
distinguishes between scientific hypes, like climate change and COVID-19, and
cultural hypes, such as diversity and inclusion.
Whilst some hype cycles may have organic roots, he suggests they are often
exploited by rulers to reinforce their power. The discussion moves on to the
cyclical nature of hypes, with Jobst noting that they repeat over time with
changing content, before emphasising the importance of resisting particularly
harmful cycles.