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Long Now

George Dyson: There's Plenty of Room at the Top: Long-term Thinking About Large-scale Computing

Jan 10, 2004
George Dyson, a historian of science and technology, dives into the evolution of computing and its future implications. He discusses the balance between digital and analog preservation, highlighting the role of archivists. The conversation touches on computing’s historical ties to bomb development and long-term predictions about the universe's expansion. Dyson shares personal anecdotes that connect ancient kayaking techniques to modern tech, emphasizing the cyclical nature of innovation and the partnership between computing and biology.
01:30:08

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Quick takeaways

  • The podcast emphasizes the significance of long-term thinking, urging individuals to consider future generations in their decision-making processes.
  • The Rosetta Project stands out as a vital initiative for preserving linguistic diversity, reflecting a commitment to cultural heritage through technological advancement.

Deep dives

The Long Now Foundation's Mission

The Long Now Foundation emphasizes the importance of long-term thinking as a fundamental responsibility in today's fast-paced world. By creating a framework for thinking about the future at a scale of thousands of years, the Foundation hopes to inspire people to consider the consequences of their actions on generations to come. This includes significant projects like the construction of a 10,000-year clock designed to encourage individuals to think about time in a broader context. By fostering discussions on long-term perspectives, the Foundation aims to cultivate a culture that prioritizes sustainability and accountability.

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