MIT Technology Review Narrated

How DeepSeek became a fortune teller for China’s youth

46 snips
Jun 4, 2025
A new AI-powered tool called DeepSeek is captivating China’s youth, offering fortune-telling insights to those grappling with economic uncertainty. The blend of tradition and technology raises fascinating individual stories, like a tech professional turning to entrepreneurship. However, concerns emerge about commercial bias in the advice given by the AI. As many view DeepSeek as a modern oracle, the podcast explores the complex relationship between technology and human emotions in this pursuit of guidance.
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ANECDOTE

Zhang Gui's AI Fortune Experience

  • Zhang Gui, a 31-year-old, uses DeepSeek AI for fortune-telling instead of traditional methods.
  • She finds it a convenient alternative to psychotherapy and turns to it when overwhelmed by emotions.
INSIGHT

Youth Turn to AI for Guidance

  • Young Chinese turn to AI fortune-telling amid economic uncertainty and high youth unemployment.
  • They seek solace and an illusion of control through traditional spiritual practices revived by AI.
INSIGHT

Bazi's Logical Fit for AI

  • Bazi fortune-telling's logical structure suits AI reasoning well.
  • DeepSeek predicts life shifts by analyzing elemental imbalances, offering practical advice like career paths.
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