Dani Shanley, an assistant professor in philosophy focusing on the ethics of emerging tech, and Gemma Milne, a lecturer and author examining the political economy of deep tech, delve into the concept of 'hype.' They dissect its profound impact on decision-making and societal narratives, particularly around AI. The discussion challenges listeners to reflect on their biases and the ethical dimensions of hype in research. They emphasize the need for clear communication and authenticity in a world increasingly shaped by exaggerated expectations.
Hype acts as a complex phenomenon influencing society by driving investment and creating momentum while distorting reality and misallocating resources.
The dual perspectives on AI hype illustrate the tension between its perceived opportunities and the irrational fears it generates in critical discussions.
Navigating the discourse around hype requires scholars to acknowledge who benefits from narratives while ensuring accountability for the realities they shape.
Deep dives
Exploring the Concept of Hype
Hype is understood as a multifaceted phenomenon that influences various aspects of society, including economics, politics, media narratives, and technology. It goes beyond mere exaggeration, functioning as a dynamic process that attracts investment and creates momentum while distorting reality and misallocating resources. The definition of hype encompasses the interplay of narratives, visions, and the emotional responses it evokes, ultimately shaping how information and knowledge are perceived and acted upon. Understanding the life cycle of hype, including its peaks and declines, is crucial for recognizing its real-world implications and the consequences it can have across different contexts.
The Nuances of AI and Hype
Artificial Intelligence serves as a compelling example of how hype operates in contemporary discourse, presenting a duality of perspectives regarding its impact and validity. On one hand, proponents argue that despite questionable functionalities, AI permeates institutions, making its hype justifiable due to its material consequences. Conversely, critics contend that the overwhelming hype surrounding AI leads to irrational fears and misconceptions about its capabilities. This tension illustrates the complexities of navigating the realities of hype and highlights the need for more nuanced conversations that consider both opportunities and risks associated with emerging technologies.
The Role of Critics and Accountability in Hype
Critics of hype face the challenge of navigating a landscape where their skepticism can sometimes inadvertently contribute to the very fears they aim to dismantle. Engaging with hype critically requires an awareness of who benefits from the discourse, as it often serves as a tool for powerful actors to manipulate narratives for their gain. This dynamic raises questions about the responsibility of scholars and critics in framing conversations around hype, especially in the technology sector, which is characterized by rapid innovation and societal impact. Ultimately, the accountability of both creators and critics of hype hinges on how they address the implications of their narratives and the realities they shape.
Hype as Translation and Future Potential
Hype functions as a mode of translation, aiming to capture attention and provoke interest in ideas, projects, or products that may not yet have full public understanding. This translation cannot merely be for self-serving ends but must also consider the broader impact of garnering attention and what actions follow. Effective communication of the potential future benefits necessitates a careful balancing act between excitement and the promise of genuine value. By framing hype as a tool for achieving buy-in for innovative endeavors, the discourse around it shifts from being solely negative to highlighting its potential for creating transformative futures.
Embracing Audacity in Hype
The concept of audacity emerges as a central theme in the analysis of hype, challenging conventional approaches to critique and engagement. Being audacious allows individuals and organizations to embrace hype while remaining true to their values, promoting innovative ideas and authentic narratives. Discussions around hype often reveal deep-seated anxieties about societal values, truth, and trust, prompting a reflection on one's positionality within these discourses. As the landscape of technology and societal consequence evolves, the ability to engage with hype boldly and sincerely becomes crucial in shaping a hopeful and impactful future.
In this episode, Dani Shanley and Gemma Milne walk me through "hype" -- what it means in various technological contexts, how it works, what it is definitionally, how it feels in the body, who it serves, who it harms, and how we might need to nuance our relationship to it, especially as critical (tech) scholars. Recorded May 1, 2025. Released May 5, 2025.
