

“Every system can be gamed”
29 snips Mar 7, 2025
Gideon Lichfield, a writer for Substack’s Futurepolis and former Wired editor-in-chief, dives into the tense relationship between AI and democracy. He discusses how AI models, controlled by a select few, impact governance and the economy. Insightfully, he explores solutions like participatory budgeting and technology’s role in enhancing civic engagement. Lichfield shares experiences with risk gaming scenarios involving deepfakes, and emphasizes the importance of creating public-interest AI that prioritizes societal good over profit.
AI Snips
Chapters
Transcript
Episode notes
Deepfake Game Experience
- Gideon Lichfield recalls his experience playing the "Deepfake and Deep Six" game, simulating election subversion with deepfakes.
- He emphasizes the "fog of war" created by the game, highlighting the challenge of discerning truth amid misinformation.
China EV Game Experience
- Lichfield played the "China EV game" and found that it was rigged against city mayors. He learned he should have prioritized his own interests over the central government's.
Risk Gaming and Decision-Making
- Risk Gaming emphasizes incentive compatibility and how people collaborate and compete under uncertainty.
- It aims to educate players on the trade-offs inherent in decision-making, fostering intellectual humility.