Sean Carroll's Mindscape: Science, Society, Philosophy, Culture, Arts, and Ideas
283 | Daron Acemoglu on Technology, Inequality, and Power
Jul 22, 2024
Daron Acemoglu, an Institute Professor at MIT, dives deep into the interplay of technology, inequality, and power dynamics. He discusses how technological advancements often initially exacerbate societal disparities, echoing lessons from the Industrial Revolution. The conversation touches on the duality of progress: while elites gain from innovations, there's potential for collective empowerment. Acemoglu advocates for proactive approaches to ensure technology serves the common good, rather than deepening existing inequalities.
01:17:43
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Quick takeaways
- Technological innovations initially harm ordinary people economically, requiring improved institutions for equitable benefits spread.
- Inclusive economic systems thrive on balanced negotiations between labor, business, and government, fostering sustainable prosperity.
Deep dives
Technology's Impact on Workforce through History
Technology has historically transformed work conditions, as seen through the British Industrial Revolution. Despite the benefits of industrial innovations like increased productivity, early workers faced challenges such as deteriorating wages and harsh working conditions. The evolution of power dynamics accompanied these changes, with elites exploiting labor until societal pushback and evolving institutions improved conditions.
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