Lou Bohan, a passionate host known for exploring technology and culture, interviews a guest with a rich background in physics and finance. They discuss growing up in Iowa and navigating cultural challenges, the misconceptions of China's reality, and the surprising migration of talent from academia to finance. The conversation probes into the implications of genomic predictions and questions of free will, diving deep into the philosophical realms of quantum mechanics and personal identity. It's a stimulating blend of personal stories and profound insights!
Professor Steve shares how his multicultural background shaped his views on technology and U.S.-China relations.
The discussion emphasizes the ethical implications of genomic advancements and the need for responsible use in society.
Steve challenges stereotypes associated with Asian Americans by highlighting the importance of a well-rounded identity in academia and athletics.
Deep dives
Background and Education of Bohan Lu
Bohan Lu, the host of the interview, grew up in China and later attended Yale University, where he studied computer science and religion. His multicultural background and experiences shaped his perspectives on various issues, including geopolitics and technology. The unique intersection of his academic fields allows for a rich discussion about the implications of technological advancements in different cultural contexts. This foundation sets the stage for exploring complex topics such as US-China relations and ethical considerations in genomics.
Steve and Shu's Professional Journey
Professor Steve and Shu is a prominent theoretical physicist and entrepreneur with a multifaceted career. He co-founded Genomic Predictions, which focuses on pre-implantation genetic screening, and Super Focus AI, an AI company aimed at addressing specific business needs. His extensive background in both academia and industry illustrates the interconnectedness of scientific research and practical applications. This dual focus enriches the conversation about the future of technology and its ethical implications.
Exploring Asian American Identity
Steve’s identity as an Asian American has been a significant influence on his life experiences, especially in the context of sports and education. He reflects on how societal stereotypes often pigeonhole Asian Americans into specific roles, particularly in academics rather than athletics. By sharing his own journey as an athlete while excelling in mathematics and science, he challenges these stereotypes and emphasizes the importance of a well-rounded identity. This discussion highlights the complexities of navigating cultural expectations while pursuing personal interests.
The Cultural Landscape of Athletics in Education
The discussion touches upon the historical context of physical education and athletics within Chinese culture, illustrating a shift over time. Steve recounts experiences from both his family’s military background and educational upbringing, showcasing how traditional values have evolved. The relevance of physical capabilities in both personal and societal contexts demonstrates the changing narrative around discipline and athleticism in contemporary China. This commentary prompts further reflection on the role sports play in shaping character and success.
Geopolitics and East-West Relations
The conversation delves into the complexities of U.S.-China relations, framed against the backdrop of strategic competition and mutual perceptions. Steve shares insights into the historical narratives that shape understanding on both sides, emphasizing how cultural perspectives can lead to misunderstandings. The need for informed analysis based on experience rather than popular assumptions becomes evident, particularly when discussing the potential for conflict or collaboration. This segment illustrates the importance of nuanced thinking in geopolitical discourse.
Ethical Considerations in Genomics
The implications of advancements in genomics and genetic predictions raise critical ethical questions in contemporary society. Steve discusses the potential for reducing risks associated with genetic diseases through advanced screening methods while also acknowledging the controversies surrounding cognitive ability assessments. The tension between scientific progress and societal values becomes apparent, particularly in how such technologies could be utilized. This dialogue encourages a broader examination of morality and responsibility in the field of genetics.
(00:00) - Growing up in Iowa. Athletics, Chinese culture. KMT and military family background.
(11:48) - Hearing about the Cultural Revolution from my dad: his family experienced it firsthand in Zhejiang. Meanwhile, US experts and academics were entirely deluded about reality in PRC
(20:55) - "Experts" are often miscalibrated
(35:03) - Physicists and finance. Was Charlie Munger right to say it's a waste of talent to channel top brains into finance?
(45:15) - Hedgehogs, Foxes, and Eagles. Polymathy.
(48:41) - Development of modern China as the greatest story of the last 50 years. My first visit to China: the Shenzhen Special Economic Zone in 1992. US-China competition and the future of Asian Americans.
(56:52) - Genomic Prediction. Genomics of cognitive ability. Leftists holding back genetic science. PING = NIH-funded Pediatric Imagining, Neurocognition, and Genetics study. Stephen J. Gould was a fraud. Asian culture (pragmatic realism) and resistance to woken...
(01:05:20) - Physics and Free Will. Meat machines programmed by evolution to have an illusion of self?
(01:10:04) - Copenhagen Interpretation of QM: Is there true randomness in Physics? Many Worlds, Foundations of QM, and groupthink in modern physics.
(01:19:09) - Christianity, raised as a Methodist by my mother, whose family has been Christian since the 19th century. Religious Experience vs Physics viewpoint. Meat machines programmed by evolution to have mystical religious feelings?
(01:21:28) - Raising children, family, happiness, the meaning of life in view of my father's life
(01:24:34) - The meaning of life, "All is Vanity" (Ecclesiastes), Religion
Music used with permission from Blade Runner Blues Livestream improvisation by State Azure.
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Steve Hsu is Professor of Theoretical Physics and of Computational Mathematics, Science, and Engineering at Michigan State University. Previously, he was Senior Vice President for Research and Innovation at MSU and Director of the Institute of Theoretical Science at the University of Oregon. Hsu is a startup founder (SuperFocus.ai, SafeWeb, Genomic Prediction, Othram) and advisor to venture capital and other investment firms. He was educated at Caltech and Berkeley, was a Harvard Junior Fellow, and has held faculty positions at Yale, the University of Oregon, and MSU. Please send any questions or suggestions to manifold1podcast@gmail.com or Steve on X @hsu_steve.
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