Tom Chatfield, a philosopher of technology and author of 'Wise Animals,' delves into our intricate relationship with tech. He argues that technology isn't just a tool but is woven into our very identity. The conversation touches on the biases in digital tools, the ethical dilemmas posed by AI, and why soft skills like empathy are becoming essential as AI replicates knowledge tasks. Chatfield also reflects on the growing skepticism toward experts and underlines the importance of self-awareness in the face of intelligent systems.
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Technology Biases
Consider technology's biases, like email encouraging more emails.
Design communication protocols and mindful meeting practices to counteract these biases.
insights INSIGHT
Generational Perspectives
Digital natives may not be inherently better at navigating the digital world.
Combining generational perspectives helps leverage the best of old and new approaches.
question_answer ANECDOTE
Email Delay Trick
Tom Chatfield uses a 30-second email delay.
This allows him to review and retract emails, avoiding mistakes or miscommunication.
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In 'Bullshit Jobs: A Theory', David Graeber argues that a significant portion of jobs in modern society are meaningless and contribute little to no value. He categorizes these jobs into five types: flunkies, goons, duct tapers, box tickers, and taskmasters. Graeber contends that these jobs are not only inefficient but also psychologically destructive, leading to chronic misery and social divisions. The book is based on his 2013 essay 'On the Phenomenon of Bullshit Jobs' and includes testimonials from workers who feel their jobs are pointless. Graeber suggests solutions such as unions and universal basic income to address the issue of meaningless work.
Wise Animals
Tom Chatfield
Tom Chatfield's "Wise Animals" explores the complex interplay between humanity and technology, challenging the common narrative of technology as a purely threatening force. The book offers a nuanced perspective, suggesting that technology is neither our master nor our victim, but rather an integral part of our being and our future. Chatfield argues that the relationship between humans and technology is reciprocal, and that our future, as well as the future of technology, rests in our hands. He encourages a more humanistic approach to technological development, emphasizing collaboration and understanding. The book promotes a thoughtful consideration of the ethical and societal implications of technological advancements.
Welcome to episode #972 of Six Pixels of Separation - The ThinkersOne Podcast.
Dr. Tom Chatfield is one of those rare thinkers who seamlessly blends philosophy, technology, and human experience, making sense of the rapidly evolving digital landscape. As an author, tech philosopher, and educator, his work - including his latest book, Wise Animals - How Technology Has Made Us What We Are - explores how humans and technology have co-evolved over thousands of years, shaping not only how we work and communicate but how we think and perceive the world. Tom is also the author of How To Think, This Is Gomorrah, Critical Thinking and many others. In this conversation, Tom challenges the conventional narrative that technology is either a savior or a threat, arguing instead that it is deeply intertwined with who we are as a species. We explore the biases embedded in our digital tools, the generational shifts in how technology is understood, and the ethical dilemmas posed by AI’s increasing influence on work, productivity, and decision-making. Tom also shared why soft skills - like empathy, collaboration, and critical thinking - are becoming more valuable than ever in an age where AI can replicate knowledge-based tasks but struggles with human connection. He reflected on the growing skepticism toward experts, the rising noise in legal and regulatory environments, and the fundamental need for doubt and self-awareness in how we design and interact with intelligent systems. Thought-provoking, insightful, and refreshingly nuanced, this conversation is for anyone who wants to engage with technology more thoughtfully, rather than passively accepting or fearing it. Enjoy the conversation...
This week's music: David Usher 'St. Lawrence River'.
Chapters:
(00:00) - Introduction to Technology Philosophy. (02:58) - The Role of Technology in Human Experience. (06:10) - Generational Perspectives on Technology. (08:54) - The Impact of AI on Work and Productivity. (11:57) - The Evolution of Human Interaction with AI. (15:05) - The Future of Work in an AI-Driven World. (17:48) - The Ethics of AI and Human Value. (20:49) - Navigating the Divide in Access to Technology. (23:49) - The Devaluation of Knowledge Work. (30:51) - The Impact of AI on Knowledge Work. (35:40) - The Value of Human Connection in a Tech-Driven World. (41:45) - Rethinking Professional Education and Skills. (48:08) - Philosophical Perspectives on AI and Technology. (57:28) - Co-evolution with Technology and the Future of Knowledge.
Six Pixels of Separation Podcast 
