

Episode 31: The wisdom of games with Oliver Roeder
6 snips Feb 7, 2023
Oliver Roeder, a senior data journalist at the Financial Times and author of "Seven Games," explores the cultural significance of traditional games. He challenges the notion that gaming is trivial, discussing its vital role in personal growth and community bonding. The conversation touches on how games like chess and backgammon serve as tools for decision-making and creativity. Roeder also examines the relationships between gaming, AI, and the evolution of human intuition, highlighting games as a bridge across generations and a medium for deep learning.
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Games Connect Us
- Games offer a unique connection to other people and human history, like backgammon played since ancient times.
- Each game has a distinct flavor, like poker, offering a unique experience.
Backgammon Obsession
- Oliver Roeder became obsessed with backgammon after researching his book.
- He now plays weekly at a Brooklyn bar and studies the game.
Games and Subcultures
- Roeder is fascinated by subcultures, particularly those formed around games.
- He believes obsessives within these subcultures are onto something meaningful.