Dwarkesh Podcast Nadia Asparouhova - Tech Elites, Democracy, Open Source, & Philanthropy
15 snips
Dec 15, 2022 
Nadia Asparouhova, a researcher and author of "Working in Public," dives into the shifting nature of American philanthropy from Rockefeller's era to Effective Altruism. She discusses how tech elites, including the controversial SBF, reflect broader global power shifts. Asparouhova examines the impact of open source software on democratic participation and the need for effective governance without charismatic leaders. The conversation also touches on the future of philanthropy and the intricate dynamics of wealth, influence, and societal change.
AI Snips
Chapters
Books
Transcript
Episode notes
SBF and EA's Finance Mindset
- SBF is tied to utilitarianism and effective altruism (EA), but EA is closer to finance than tech.
- EA shares the finance mindset of quantitative thinking, efficiency, and globalism, unlike startups.
Two Types of Elites
- The US has both aristocratic and meritocratic elites, unlike other countries with mainly aristocratic elites.
- Meritocratic elites, lacking generational socialization, may hoard wealth or become aristocratic.
Shifting Philanthropic Landscape
- The model of tech billionaires' wives leading philanthropy is recent and changing.
- Wealthy individuals are moving away from foundations towards LLCs and DAFs for flexibility.
