Ethical Machines AI Needs Historians
May 29, 2025
The podcast explores the essential role of historians in addressing modern tech challenges. By examining the historical roots of AI and social media, the speakers highlight how past values shape current issues. They argue that understanding these contexts is crucial for effective policymaking and ethical AI development. The discussion emphasizes a humanistic approach to technology that aligns with societal values, urging for solutions that consider historical narratives. Ultimately, it’s a call for a more informed and responsible tech movement.
AI Snips
Chapters
Books
Transcript
Episode notes
History Reveals True Problem Roots
- Understanding the history of technology problems helps identify their real root causes.
- Without historical context, solutions risk targeting symptoms rather than underlying issues.
Platform Values Shape History Visibility
- Social media platforms prioritize values like nostalgia and sensationalism over accurate history.
- The visibility problem is about platform values, not a lack of quality historical content.
AI Policy Needs Historical Depth
- AI policy rush risks missing deeper historical contexts.
- More historical research could reveal different, more effective regulatory approaches.
