

#58: Hill Making & Lessons for Living with WIRED co-founder Kevin Kelly
6 snips May 6, 2025
In this conversation, Kevin Kelly, co-founder of Wired Magazine and author of '1000 True Fans,' examines how science fiction has influenced technological advancements. He introduces the concept of 'hill making,' emphasizing innovation over mere optimization. Kelly reflects on the humanizing effects of the internet and the vital role travel plays in personal growth. He shares insights from his latest book, advocating for creativity and an optimistic outlook in navigating our complex world, while underscoring the importance of love and community in innovation.
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Inspired by Sci-Fi, Not Early Computers
- Kevin Kelly was bored by the first computers he saw as a teenager because they lacked interactive features like screens or keyboards.
- His early fascination was with science fiction which shaped his vision of what computers could become.
Sci-Fi Shapes Science Reality
- Science fiction has profoundly influenced scientific research and technology development.
- Many inventions trace back to the visions depicted in science fiction, like the Star Trek communicator inspiring the iPhone.
Internet as a New Human Frontier
- The internet felt humanizing to Kevin Kelly because it connected people with shared interests, forming conceptual neighborhoods.
- This early online community creation was exhilarating and brought a very human quality of helping and connecting.