#111: Part 1: The Unsupervised Rise of a New Digital Civilization

May 28, 2025

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In this episode of Earthlings 2.0, we sit down with technologist Daniel Doll-Steinberg who is also Co-Founder of the active innovation and ecosystem fund, EdenBase. This special episode is part one of a two-part series on six foundational technologies shaping a new digital civilization: AI, quantum computing, smart data (blockchain), always-on communications, immersive tech, and self-replicating systems. Daniel argues we are witnessing the end of the Industrial Age, marked by geopolitical instability and outdated institutions. He explains how technologies now adopt instantly and dematerialize physical tools, raising concerns about persistent connectivity, data interpretation, and the emergence of AI agents that act autonomously.

Key Points:

Six Foundational Technologies Will Reshape Society: Daniel identifies six core technologies — AI, quantum computing, smart data (blockchain), always-on communications, immersive technologies, and self-replicating technologies, as the key enablers of future change. These systems are converging to alter how we work, communicate, and organize society.
The End of the Industrial Era Is Already Underway: Daniel argues that we are witnessing the end of the Industrial Age, with many of its systems — economic, political, and social — struggling to adapt. This transition is bringing geopolitical instability and societal confusion, as old institutions and rules no longer fit emerging realities.
Technology Is Creating Massive Asymmetries in Power and Access: Tools like AI agents and immersive tech will create large gaps between adopters and non-adopters. For example, an individual using a contact lens interface could know everyone in a room by name, creating unfair advantages in both personal and professional interactions. Those who don’t adopt will be left behind or excluded.
Daniel Doll-Steinburg, Author of Unsupervised, Co-Founder of EdenBase
LinkedIn
EdenBase
LinkedIn

Lisa Ann Pinkerton, Earthlings 2.0 Host, CEO of Technica Communications, and Founder of Women in Cleantech and Sustainability, LinkedIn

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