Robert Wright's Nonzero 2025: A Year-End (And Quarter-Century-End) Reckoning (Robert Wright & Paul Bloom)
Dec 30, 2025
Paul Bloom, a renowned psychologist and author, joins Robert Wright for a thoughtful discussion. They reflect on notable 2025 figures lost, including Jane Goodall. The duo explores how the algorithmically guided age has shifted daily cognition and work dynamics. They dive into the political ramifications of global poverty reduction, the risks of AI, and the potential chaos of future governance. Bloom critiques the rise of eccentric influencers in media, while both share predictions for a transformative yet uncertain future.
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Algorithms Steered Our Attention
- The first quarter-century's defining shift is that algorithms began directing human attention at scale.
- Robert Wright calls this the “algorithmic attention age,” driven by AI-powered social media and recommendation systems.
AI Could Make Or Break Global Order
- AI will likely determine whether we achieve stronger global governance or descend into chaos by 2050.
- Robert Wright warns AI could either catalyze cooperation or wreak havoc if mishandled.
A Star Trek–Like Future Is Plausible
- Paul Bloom predicts AI-driven abundance within 25 years, akin to a Star Trek-like world of universal basic needs.
- He sees accelerated scientific and longevity advances improving quality of life if managed right.