The Tao Te Ching, attributed to Lao Tzu, is a foundational text of Taoism. Composed of 81 short chapters, it explores the nature of the Tao, the underlying principle of the universe. The book advocates for a life of simplicity, humility, and non-interference, aligning oneself with the natural flow of existence. It emphasizes the importance of inner peace, balance, and detachment from worldly desires. Its teachings have influenced various aspects of Chinese culture, including philosophy, spirituality, and traditional medicine. The Tao Te Ching remains a source of wisdom and guidance for those seeking a deeper understanding of life and the universe.
In this episode a16z co-founders Marc Andreessen and Ben Horowitz sit down with legendary music producer and bestselling author Rick Rubin to explore the origin of his unexpected new creation: "The Way of Code"*
Blending ancient philosophy and modern AI, The Way of Code reimagines the 3,000-year-old Tao Te Ching for the age of artificial intelligence, software, and “vibe coding.” What began as a viral tweet quickly evolved into a creative manifesto—part book, part tool, part spiritual operating system for the future. Joined by a16z General Partners Anjney Midha and Erik Torenberg, the group dives deep into:
- How Rick became a meme for Vibe Coding —and then quickly wrote "The Way of Code"
- Why AI is just another artistic tool
- Remix culture, creativity, and collective consciousness
- Why great founders and artists need to stay true to themselves
With shout outs to punk rock, the collective unconscious, and Johnny Cash’s famed acoustic sessions, this conversation is a sprawling, soul-searching journey across music, philosophy, tech, and truth. We hope you enjoy this deeply personal and surprisingly practical conversation on how to live—and create—in the age of AI.
The Way of Code: https://www.thewayofcode.com/
“Tools will come and tools will go. Only the vibe coder remains.” - Rick Rubin
Resources:
Watch the Tetragrammaton podcast: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC5Gat6FdyiG5ydUUHqPTAEQ
Rick on X: https://x.com/rickrubin
Marc on X: https://x.com/pmarca
Marc’s Substack: https://pmarca.substack.com/
Ben on X: https://x.com/bhorowitz
Erik on X: https://x.com/eriktorenberg
Erik's Substack: https://eriktorenberg.substack.com/
Anjney on X: https://x.com/AnjneyMidha
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Please note that the content here is for informational purposes only; should NOT be taken as legal, business, tax, or investment advice or be used to evaluate any investment or security; and is not directed at any investors or potential investors in any a16z fund. a16z and its affiliates may maintain investments in the companies discussed. For more details please see a16z.com/disclosures.
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