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The Gray Area with Sean Illing
A brief history of extinction panics
Feb 26, 2024
Tyler Austin Harper, an assistant professor of environmental studies and New York Times contributor, dives into the frenzy surrounding AI and its ties to extinction panics. He discusses the history of such fears, linking them to today's anxieties about technology and climate change. The conversation tackles the ethical implications of long-termism versus short-term suffering, critiques elite narratives about extinction, and highlights the real risks of AI misuse. Harper ultimately urges a balance of humility and optimism as we face modern existential threats.
50:17
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Quick takeaways
- The discussion around AI highlights exaggerated fears of human extinction, blending science fiction and real risks.
- Past extinction panics reflect ongoing societal anxieties about technological advancements and existential threats.
Deep dives
Understanding the Polarized Discourse on Artificial Intelligence
The conversation around artificial intelligence (AI) is often portrayed in extremes, with some viewing it as the end of human civilization while others see it as a shortcut to utopia. This polarization reflects broader concerns about rapid technological growth and political disruption. While there are real risks associated with AI, such as the potential misuse of deep fake technology or bioterrorism, the narrative around AI often involves science fiction ideologies and exaggerated scenarios, creating a sense of existential risk.
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