Robinson's Podcast 262 - Slavoj Žižek: Marxism, Quantum Mechanics, and Artificial Intelligence
Oct 26, 2025
In this captivating discussion, Slavoj Žižek, a prominent philosopher and cultural critic, delves into the intersections of Marxism, quantum mechanics, and artificial intelligence. He explores the chaotic nature of ecological change, challenges conspiratorial thinking in politics, and emphasizes the importance of philosophy in understanding our uncertain age. Žižek provocatively examines the role of AI as a potential tool of oppression, critiques the trend towards soft fascism, and argues for transparency in AI technology. His insights provoke thought on the complex dynamics of contemporary society.
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Contingency Becoming Necessity
- History unfolds through contingent events that retroactively establish themselves as necessary outcomes.
- Žižek links this dialectical moment to Marx's analysis of capitalism and to quantum-style indeterminacy.
Quantum Thought For Political Chaos
- Žižek argues quantum mechanics offers conceptual tools to grasp today's radical, contingent reality.
- He suggests natural laws themselves may have emerged contingently, undermining stable historical frameworks.
Climate Chaos Over New Stability
- Ecological collapse may result in chaotic, non-stationary nature rather than a new stable climate.
- Žižek warns this could force radical, unimaginable changes to our entire way of life.
