Hold These Truths with Dan Crenshaw
What Happened to the Flying Cars? | James Pethokoukis
Oct 4, 2024
James Pethokoukis, a Senior Fellow at the American Enterprise Institute and author of "The Conservative Futurist," discusses the decline of technological optimism that once promised flying cars and vacations on Mars. He delves into the cultural shifts since the 1970s that fostered a climate of 'techno-pessimism.' Pethokoukis also presents a roadmap for reviving innovation through increased funding and regulatory reforms. Highlighting the role of globalization, he emphasizes the need for a renewed belief in ambitious projects to overcome stagnation.
37:29
Episode guests
AI Summary
AI Chapters
Episode notes
Podcast summary created with Snipd AI
Quick takeaways
- The podcast highlights how regulatory decisions from the 1970s contributed to a stagnation in technological innovation and economic growth.
- A cultural shift towards techno-pessimism and fear of innovation has undermined public confidence, reducing investment in breakthrough technologies.
Deep dives
The Optimism Gap in Technological Advancement
A significant point discussed is the perceived lull in technological advancement since the 1970s, despite early optimism in the post-war era. The excitement surrounding advancements such as space exploration led to expectations of continued rapid progress. However, this enthusiasm waned; by the early 1970s, growth in productivity slowed, indicating a reduction in innovation. The conversation highlights how societal attitudes shifted, emphasizing risks over potential technological benefits, which contributed to a culture of techno-pessimism.
Remember Everything You Learn from Podcasts
Save insights instantly, chat with episodes, and build lasting knowledge - all powered by AI.
