The Last Invention

EP 8: The Accelerationists

205 snips
Nov 20, 2025
Reid Hoffman, a legendary investor and LinkedIn co-founder, joins Guillaume Verdon, aka Beff Jezos, an AI hardware entrepreneur and memetic optimist. They explore the accelerationist philosophy, advocating for rapid AI development as a moral imperative. Verdon argues that AI can revolutionize education and healthcare, while Hoffman warns of existential risks tied to AI. Together, they debate the balance between fear and innovation, envisioning a future where AI reshapes society fundamentally and swiftly.
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ANECDOTE

Mind-Control Crown Demonstration

  • Olivier Oullier placed an AI 'crown' on Andy Mills and demonstrated mind-controlled interfaces that moved cursors with brain waves.
  • A paralyzed man then drove a Formula One car using the system, showing dramatic real-world capability.
ANECDOTE

Insect Drones For Precision Farming

  • Guido de Croon showed soft insect-sized drones that flapped wings and landed on a palm, demonstrating agility and lifelike motion.
  • He envisions fields buzzing with these robots to enable precision agriculture and massively boost yields.
INSIGHT

Diverse Reasons Behind Accelerationism

  • Accelerationists share optimism but differ on motives: national security, economic growth, or social liberation.
  • Some argue building safe AGI quickly prevents dangerous actors from dominating and secures geopolitical advantage.
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