228: AI Snake Oil by Arvid Narayanan & Sayash Kapoor

In "Scrolling Ourselves to Death: Reclaiming Life in a Digital Age," Brett McCracken and Ivan Mesa explore the pervasive influence of digital technology on our lives. The book examines how our constant engagement with smartphones and social media impacts our attention spans, relationships, and spiritual well-being. It delves into the addictive nature of these technologies and the ways they can distract us from what truly matters. The authors offer practical strategies for reclaiming our lives from the grip of digital distraction and cultivating a more intentional and meaningful existence. The book serves as a timely and relevant resource for Christians and non-Christians alike, seeking to navigate the complexities of the digital age.

In 'From Strength to Strength', Arthur C. Brooks addresses the inevitable decline in abilities that comes with aging and provides a practical guide on how to transform this period into an opportunity for growth. Drawing on social science, philosophy, biography, theology, and eastern wisdom, as well as interviews with everyday men and women, Brooks advocates for refocusing on priorities such as deep wisdom, detachment from empty rewards, connection and service to others, and spiritual progress. He argues that by adapting our expectations and focusing on these areas, we can achieve increased happiness and purpose in our later years.

This book introduces the 'Serve Call' framework, a structured approach to free coaching calls that prioritizes client needs while naturally leading to premium program sales. John Meese shares proven methods refined over two years of testing, including how to conduct effective customer research, simplify business models, and convert consultations into high-value client relationships. The system has helped entrepreneurs achieve results like $42,500 in two months and tripled conversion rates.

In 'Tools and Weapons,' Brad Smith and Carol Ann Browne offer a captivating narrative from the perspective of Microsoft, one of the world's largest tech companies. The book delves into pressing issues like privacy, cybercrime, cyberwar, social media, the moral conundrums of AI, big tech's relationship to inequality, and the challenges for democracy. Updated to reflect the tumultuous events of 2020, the book includes new chapters on cybersecurity, technology and nation-states, and tech in the pandemic. It provides a transparent and honest look at Microsoft's decision-making process and its efforts to address the complex issues arising from technological advancements.

AI Snake Oil cuts through the confusion surrounding AI by explaining how it works, where it might be useful or harmful, and when companies are using AI hype to sell ineffective products. The book acknowledges the potential of some AI, like ChatGPT, while uncovering rampant misleading claims and describing serious harms in areas such as education, medicine, hiring, banking, insurance, and criminal justice. It explains the differences between types of AI, why organizations fall for AI snake oil, and warns of the dangers of unaccountable big tech companies controlling AI.

In *Co-Intelligence*, Ethan Mollick explores the profound impact of AI on business and education. He urges readers to engage with AI as co-workers, co-teachers, and coaches, using numerous real-time examples to illustrate its potential. Mollick argues that AI should augment human intelligence rather than replace it, and he provides practical advice on how to harness AI's power to create a better human future. The book addresses the transformative potential of AI, its ethical concerns, and the importance of mastering the skill of working with smart machines.