The Human Side of the AI Underclass w/ Joanne McNeil
Nov 30, 2023
auto_awesome
Joanne McNeil, author of "Wrong Way", discusses the human labor behind self-driving cars, the challenges of being a tech critic, and the need for tech critics that aren't insiders. They also touch on the fantasy of self-driving cars and the illusion of automation.
Fair criticism involves engaging with and understanding someone's ideas, even if you disagree with them.
The novel 'Wrong Way' explores the human labor behind self-driving cars, touching on topics of transportation, labor, and technology.
Joanne McNeil discusses the impact of technology on labor and the need for critical analysis of its societal implications.
Deep dives
The importance of fair criticism and engaging with ideas
The podcast episode emphasizes the significance of fair criticism by stating that if someone's ideas are engaged with and one puts in the effort to understand and disagree with them, it is considered fair criticism. It highlights that many companies struggle with critics, as they crumble as soon as they are seen for what they truly are.
Discussion of the novel 'Wrong Way'
The podcast features a conversation with Joanne McNeil, the author of the novel 'Wrong Way.' The novel explores the theme of self-driving cars and the human labor behind them, providing a fictional story that delves into relevant topics such as transportation, labor, and technology. The podcast episode includes insights from the author on the inspiration behind the novel and its exploration of the tech industry.
Joanne McNeil's journey as a tech critic and writer
The podcast delves into Joanne McNeil's journey as a tech critic and writer. It highlights her work as a tech critic and her experiences writing for various publications. Joanne discusses her early days as a guest on the podcast, her transition from fiction writing to tech criticism, and the insights she has gained in her career as a critic of the tech industry.
The complex relationship between technology and social issues
In the podcast episode, the complex relationship between technology and various social issues is explored. Joanne McNeil discusses the impact of technology on labor, the unequal distribution of benefits, and the potential for social change. The conversation highlights the need for critical analysis and understanding of the societal implications of technology.
The need for a more accurate portrayal of working-class life
The podcast episode discusses the importance of representing working-class life more accurately in literature and media. It emphasizes the need to move beyond stereotypes and to depict the intelligence, potential, and experiences of working-class individuals. The conversation highlights the unique challenges faced by the working class and emphasizes the importance of their stories being told.
Paris Marx is joined by Joanne McNeil to discuss her new novel dealing with the human labor behind self-driving cars and the challenges of being a good tech critic.
Joanne McNeil is the author of Wrong Way and has written for Dissent Magazine, New York Magazine, and The Nation.
Tech Won’t Save Us offers a critical perspective on tech, its worldview, and wider society with the goal of inspiring people to demand better tech and a better world. Support the show on Patreon.
The podcast is produced by Eric Wickham. Transcripts are by Brigitte Pawliw-Fry.
In 2014, Ursula Le Guin was awarded the National Book Foundation’s Medal for Distinguished Contribution to American Letters and gave a speech that skewered capitalism.
Joanne’s fictional tech founder was in part inspired by Holacracy and Dan Price.