Nobel Prize Conversations Simon Johnson: Nobel Prize Conversations
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Jul 2, 2025 
Simon Johnson, a Nobel Prize laureate and MIT professor, dives into the intertwining of history and science fiction, asserting that one is often a reflection of the other. He shares insights on the responsibility that comes with technological advancement and the importance of inclusive institutions for long-term prosperity. Johnson discusses how colonial experiences provide lessons for modern economic outcomes, critiques recent anti-science trends, and reveals his plans for a science fiction novel and graphic adaptation to engage wider audiences.
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Explain Research Clearly Without Dumbing It Down
- Communicate complex research in plain language without removing analysis.
- Engage varied audiences and answer their questions to avoid narrow academic thinking.
AI’s Dual Path: Progress Or Concentration
- AI brings both transformative positive uses and serious risks to jobs and distribution.
- History shows automation can either broaden shared gains or concentrate wealth depending on who adopts it.
Institutions Shape Who Benefits From Technology
- Inclusive institutions produce broader prosperity and better long-term technological outcomes.
- Extractive institutions concentrate gains and hinder widespread innovation and development.
