Lost Tempo
Dave Karpf - The Future Now And Then
Mar 10, 2025
In a captivating discussion, Dave Karpf, an academic and author focusing on technology and political advocacy, shares his insights on various topics. He reflects on environmentalism and the evolution of advocacy since the 90s. The conversation dives into the dual nature of technology, from personal joy to societal challenges. Karpf humorously contrasts techno-optimism with the reality of AGI limits and critiques profit-driven tech. He also discusses the fragmentation of the internet and the implications of capitalism on journalism and advocacy.
34:53
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Quick takeaways
- Dave Karpf emphasizes the importance of sustainable funding models for journalism to adapt and thrive in an evolving media landscape.
- He discusses how emerging technologies often prioritize profit over social benefits, suggesting a need for regulation focused on business models instead.
Deep dives
Dave Karp's Journey into Academia
Dave Karp began his career in environmental activism, initially joining the Sierra Club's student-run arm during high school, eventually becoming its director in college. His ambition was to remain dedicated to environmental work, but after some unexpected turns in his early adulthood, he enrolled in a PhD program in political science while serving on the Sierra Club’s board. This coincided with the rise of digital activism in the early 2000s, as Karp's academic research explored how the internet could empower traditional organizations like the Sierra Club. His work in this field led him to secure a tenure-track position focused on enhancing the capabilities of advocacy groups through digital means.
