AXRP - the AI X-risk Research Podcast

38.6 - Joel Lehman on Positive Visions of AI

Jan 24, 2025

In this discussion, Joel Lehman, a machine learning researcher and co-author of "Why Greatness Cannot Be Planned," delves into the future of AI and its potential to promote human flourishing. He challenges the notion that alignment with individual needs is sufficient. The conversation explores positive visions for AI, the balance of technology with societal values, and how recommendation systems can foster meaningful personal growth. Lehman emphasizes the importance of understanding human behavior in shaping AI that enhances well-being.

15:28

Creator website

Episode guests

Joel Lehman

AI Summary

AI Chapters

Episode notes

Podcast summary created with Snipd AI

Quick takeaways

AI's development must prioritize human well-being over superficial market demands to avoid exacerbating societal issues.

Improving recommendation systems involves understanding the deep impact of experiences on individuals, beyond traditional metrics of success.

Deep dives

The Influence of AI on Social Interactions

AI has the potential to greatly enhance societal interactions, yet it risks exacerbating existing problems. As AI technologies develop, there's concern that they may prioritize immediate gratification, compromising deeper social connections and genuine understanding. For example, products like social media platforms may initially aim to foster connection but can lead to addiction and reduced well-being. This contradictory nature suggests that while AI may deliver on superficial desires, it could simultaneously undermine more meaningful human interactions.

Intro

2min

AI and Human Connection

4min

Exploring Complexities of Human Flourishing in AI

2min

Navigating Human Experience Through Machine Learning

5min

Conversations with Our Future Selves

2min

Typically this podcast talks about how to avert destruction from AI. But what would it take to ensure AI promotes human flourishing as well as it can? Is alignment to individuals enough, and if not, where do we go form here? In this episode, I talk with Joel Lehman about these questions.

Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/axrpodcast

Ko-fi: https://ko-fi.com/axrpodcast

Transcript: https://axrp.net/episode/2025/01/24/episode-38_6-joel-lehman-positive-visions-of-ai.html

FAR.AI: https://far.ai/

FAR.AI on X (aka Twitter): https://x.com/farairesearch

FAR.AI on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@FARAIResearch

The Alignment Workshop: https://www.alignment-workshop.com/

Topics we discuss, and timestamps:

01:12 - Why aligned AI might not be enough

04:05 - Positive visions of AI

08:27 - Improving recommendation systems

Links: