Lex Fridman Podcast

#218 – Jaron Lanier: Virtual Reality, Social Media & the Future of Humans and AI

Sep 6, 2021

Jaron Lanier, a pioneer in virtual reality and a vocal critic of social media, discusses the transformative potential of technology and its societal implications. He explores the philosophical aspects of virtual reality versus physical perception, emphasizing the importance of real-life experiences. Lanier critiques current social media practices, advocating for platforms that promote empathy and genuine connections. Additionally, he addresses concepts like data dignity and the ethical challenges posed by AI, urging a compassionate approach to technology.

01:58:54

Creator website

Episode guests

Jaron Lanier

Highlights

AI Chapters

Episode notes

Will People See Virtual Worlds Undistinguishable From Reality

02:14

Why I don't believe in AI

01:03

Cognitive Loophole Behind Social Media

01:39

Answering the meaning of our existence

02:56

Intro

4min

Exploring Innovative Products for Enhanced Performance and Comfort

3min

Virtual Reality vs. Physical Perception

15min

Beauty, Darkness, and the Nature of Consciousness

11min

Empathy in the Age of AI

14min

Promoting Healthy Conversations in Social Media

2min

Data Dignity and Future Visions

21min

Navigating the Complexities of Governance and Cryptocurrency

15min

Exploring the Universe: Physics, Music, and Consciousness

12min

10.

Shaping Through Struggles

5min

11.

Echoes of Memory: Music and Loss

5min

12.

Embracing Mortality: Life's Value and Cosmic Wonder

7min

13.

Exploring the Meaning of Life Through Cosmic Perspective and Context

4min

Jaron Lanier is a computer scientist, composer, artist, author, and founder of the field of virtual reality. Please support this podcast by checking out our sponsors:
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EPISODE LINKS:
Jaron’s Website: http://www.jaronlanier.com/
Jaron’s Books: https://amzn.to/3tlhl9T

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OUTLINE:
Here’s the timestamps for the episode. On some podcast players you should be able to click the timestamp to jump to that time.
(00:00) – Introduction
(08:04) – What is reality?
(12:17) – Turing machines
(13:35) – Simulating our universe
(19:49) – Video games and other immersive experiences
(23:37) – Death and consciousness
(32:08) – Designing human-centric AI
(33:42) – Empathy with robots
(37:33) – Social media incentives
(49:53) – Data dignity
(57:26) – Jack Dorsey and Twitter
(1:09:10) – Bitcoin and cryptocurrencies
(1:13:51) – Government overreach and freedom
(1:24:06) – GitHub and TikTok
(1:26:16) – The Autodidactic Universe
(1:31:07) – Humans and the mystery of music
(1:37:17) – Defining moments
(1:48:03) – Mortality
(1:49:56) – The meaning of life

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