Bestselling author and historian Yuval Noah Harari discusses the paradox of information overload and human wisdom. He argues that despite our vast knowledge, we may be losing our capacity for critical thinking, largely due to the quality of available information. Harari also delves into the implications of artificial intelligence, highlighting both its potential to enhance society and the ethical challenges it poses. His insights urge listeners to reflect on the role of technology in shaping democracy and the future of human intelligence.
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insights INSIGHT
Smart but Stupid
Humans are smart, but our information networks often lead to self-destructive outcomes.
The quality of information doesn't improve; modern societies are susceptible to mass delusions.
insights INSIGHT
Information ≠ Truth
More information does not necessarily lead to more truth or wisdom.
Truth is costly to produce, while fiction is cheap and readily available.
insights INSIGHT
Power vs. Truth
Humans yearn for both power and truth, despite cynical views emphasizing power struggles.
True happiness and satisfaction come from knowing the truth, not just acquiring power.
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This book surveys the history of humankind from the Stone Age to the 21st century, focusing on Homo sapiens. It divides human history into four major parts: the Cognitive Revolution, the Agricultural Revolution, the Unification of Humankind, and the Scientific Revolution. Harari argues that Homo sapiens dominate the world due to their unique ability to cooperate in large numbers through beliefs in imagined realities such as gods, nations, money, and human rights. The book also examines the impact of human activities on the global ecosystem and speculates on the future of humanity, including the potential for genetic engineering and non-organic life.
How to Change
The Science of Getting from Where You Are to Where You Want to Be
Katy Milkman
In this ground-breaking book, Katy Milkman reveals a proven path to help readers move from where they are to where they want to be. Drawing on her original research and the work of her world-renowned scientific collaborators, Milkman shares strategic methods for identifying and overcoming common barriers to change, such as impulsivity, procrastination, and forgetfulness. The book offers innovative approaches like 'temptation bundling,' using timely reminders, and creating 'set-it-and-forget-it systems' to make change more achievable. It emphasizes the importance of tailoring solutions to specific roadblocks and using science to stack the deck in favor of successful change.
Humans are good learners and teachers, constantly gathering information, archiving, and sharing knowledge. So why, after building the most sophisticated information technology in history, are we on the verge of destroying ourselves? We know more than ever before. But are we any wiser? Bestselling author of Sapiens and historian Yuval Noah Harari doesn’t think so.
This week Sean Illing talks with Harari, author of a mind-bending new book, Nexus: A Brief History of Information Networks, about how the information systems that shape our world often sow the seeds of destruction, and why the current AI revolution is just the beginning of a brand-new evolutionary process that might leave us all behind.
The Gray Area with Sean Illing 
