Factually! with Adam Conover

Two Computer Scientists Debunk A.I. Hype with Arvind Narayanan and Sayash Kapoor

Oct 2, 2024

In this discussion, Arvind Narayanan and Sayash Kapoor, computer scientists at Princeton and authors of a revealing book on AI, debunk the overblown hype surrounding artificial intelligence. They clarify how much of what’s marketed as AI is actually just clever narratives or low-paid human labor. Dive into their insights on the environmental fallout of large models, the misconceptions about AI's capabilities, and the broader implications for society. Their critical take empowers listeners to navigate the murky waters of tech claims with skepticism.

01:11:28

Episode guests

Sayash Kapoor

Arvind Narayanan

AI Summary

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Episode notes

Podcast summary created with Snipd AI

Quick takeaways

The podcast highlights the gap between the marketed capabilities of AI technologies and their actual performance, urging critical evaluation of such claims.

It discusses the tendency of AI companies to exaggerate their technological abilities to attract investment, contributing to public misunderstandings about AI.

The importance of promoting public skepticism and encouraging independent inquiry regarding AI technology is emphasized to foster informed discussions and ethical policies.

Deep dives

The Flaws in the American Electoral System

The challenges facing American democracy are largely attributed to the existing electoral system, which operates on a winner-take-all basis. This approach creates significant barriers to equitable representation, contributing to feelings of disillusionment among citizens. By examining alternative systems used in other nations, such as those in Northern Ireland, it's suggested that the U.S. could benefit from rethinking its own electoral processes. Such reforms could provide a pathway to a healthier democratic environment and better serve the interests of the populace.

Intro

2min

Debunking the AI Hype

5min

Debunking AI Myths

11min

The Complex Relationship Between Technology and Education

6min

AI and Statistics: A Cultural Clash

19min

Debunking AI Myths: Investment, Automation, and Tech Narratives

5min

The AI Hype Cycle: Reality vs. Perception

27min

Skepticism and Empowerment in Understanding AI

5min

The AI hype train has officially left the station, and it's speeding so fast it might just derail. This isn't because of what AI can actually do, it's all because of how it's marketed. This week, Adam sits with Arvind Narayanan and Sayash Kapoor, computer scientists at Princeton and co-authors of "AI Snake Oil: What Artificial Intelligence Can Do, What It Can’t, and How to Tell the Difference." Together, they break down everything from tech that's labeled as "AI" but really isn’t, to surprising cases where so-called "AI" is actually just low-paid human labor in disguise. Find Arvind and Sayash's book at factuallypod.com/books

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