Artificial Intelligence and You cover image

Artificial Intelligence and You

216 - Guest: John Danaher, Law Professor in AI Ethics, part 2

Aug 5, 2024
Joining the conversation is John Danaher, a senior lecturer in law at the University of Galway and author of "Automation and Utopia," who brings insights into the transformative effects of generative AI on society. He discusses the Luddite Fallacy, the dual nature of AI in enhancing or hindering cognition, and the future of work amid increasing automation. Interesting comparisons are made about economic impacts on job structures, along with musings on class divides and even a nod to Taylor Swift. It's a thought-provoking discussion on technology's role in our lives.
37:40

Episode guests

Podcast summary created with Snipd AI

Quick takeaways

  • Generative AI poses a duality in human interaction, potentially enhancing cognition or leading to reliance and cognitive atrophy among users.
  • The evolution of jobs due to automation suggests an unpredictable future, where lower-skilled workers might benefit from AI despite concerns of inequality.

Deep dives

The Impact of Generative AI on Human Cognition

Generative AI models create a unique interaction dynamic between humans and technology, akin to the relationship seen with cognitive tools. These tools can either enhance human cognitive abilities, resembling the interactivity of an abacus, or act as a mere outsourcing device, similar to a digital calculator. The interaction here is heavily influenced by how users engage with AI—for instance, students may overly rely on it to complete assignments without understanding the underlying concepts. This duality raises concerns regarding cognitive atrophy and the implications for the educational system as students may opt for the simpler, less engaging interactions.

Get the Snipd
podcast app

Unlock the knowledge in podcasts with the podcast player of the future.
App store bannerPlay store banner

AI-powered
podcast player

Listen to all your favourite podcasts with AI-powered features

Discover
highlights

Listen to the best highlights from the podcasts you love and dive into the full episode

Save any
moment

Hear something you like? Tap your headphones to save it with AI-generated key takeaways

Share
& Export

Send highlights to Twitter, WhatsApp or export them to Notion, Readwise & more

AI-powered
podcast player

Listen to all your favourite podcasts with AI-powered features

Discover
highlights

Listen to the best highlights from the podcasts you love and dive into the full episode