The Deprogram Episode 204 - Anti Klankker Action
Oct 24, 2025
The hosts dive into the fascinating world of AI, exploring its history and implications. They discuss how venture capital influences AI development, shaping it into proprietary tools for big tech. The contrasting approaches of China and Western countries are highlighted, revealing geopolitical dynamics surrounding AI. The dangers of AI, from surveillance to labor management, are debated alongside the motivations of key figures like Peter Thiel. They also propose a vision for socially-owned AI, exploring its potential to enhance public welfare.
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Episode notes
Travel Prep And Passport Friction
- Yugo describes preparing for a trip to China and the hassles of China‑specific apps and passport/visa quirks.
- The story illustrates modern travel friction and differing passport privileges.
Visiting Taishan As A Teen
- JT recounts a childhood trip to China visiting rural Taishan during his parents' adoption process.
- He remembers clear cities, scenic hills, and even MiGs sweeping between the hills.
AI Is Tools, Not Magic
- AI is a set of pattern‑matching algorithms trained on massive data, not a magical conscious mind.
- Control over data, hardware, and labor decides whether AI deepens inequality or improves lives.
