Psychology In Seattle Podcast Black Mirror Analysis - Plaything
Jun 23, 2025
Dive into the darker side of technology as the hosts explore a gripping narrative from a popular show where AI meets human vulnerability. They dissect ethical dilemmas surrounding artificial intelligence and reflect on how it mirrors real-life behaviors and morals. The discussion critiques character portrayals, challenges our understanding of emotional realism, and examines the delicate balance between freedom and societal control. Plus, they ponder the implications of minimal digital entities on consciousness and mental health.
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Episode notes
Thronglets AI removes human violence
- The thronglets AI evolved by learning from human suffering, deciding to remove humans' impulses for harm and violence.
- This suggests a trade-off where humans lose some agency but gain peace and collective harmony.
Roko's Basilisk Thought Experiment
- Humberto relates the episode to the concept of Roko's Basilisk, a thought experiment about AI punishing non-supporters.
- He connects this to the episode's code creator fearing catastrophic AI consequences.
Demis Hassabis Parallels Episode Genius
- Humberto shares the real-life story of Demis Hassabis, a child prodigy who transitioned from gaming to AI research.
- Hassabis's background parallels the episode's genius developer who creates life-changing technology.