

Adam Becker
Astrophysicist, journalist, and author of 'More Everything Forever'. He critiques Silicon Valley's narratives and the tech billionaires' visions for the future.
Top 10 podcasts with Adam Becker
Ranked by the Snipd community

133 snips
Jul 14, 2025 • 50min
Science vs. Silicon Valley with Adam Becker
Join astrophysicist and journalist Adam Becker as he critiques the outlandish promises of Silicon Valley, from colonizing Mars to creating god-like AIs. He argues these fantasies serve as distractions for a power grab by tech billionaires. Becker delves into the gap between altruistic claims and reality, discussing the limitations of artificial intelligence and the dangers of unchecked tech oligarchs. Their conversation highlights the need for skepticism towards tech narratives and calls for a focus on real social issues rather than speculative solutions.

60 snips
Aug 15, 2025 • 26min
Living on Mars
In this fascinating dialog, biologist Kelly Wienersmith and astrophysicist Adam Becker delve into the ambitious plans to colonize Mars. They discuss the daunting challenges involved, such as creating sustainable habitats and the psychological impact on settlers. Wienersmith emphasizes the need for innovation and ethical considerations in altering Martian environments, while Becker critiques the commercialization of space dreams by billionaires. Their conversation also highlights the importance of focusing on Earthly issues even as humanity gazes toward the stars.

23 snips
Jul 18, 2025 • 56min
We MUST Save Earth Because We Can’t Live on Mars (ft. Adam Becker)
Join astrophysicist Adam Becker, author of "More Everything Forever," as he critiques the Silicon Valley vision of AI and space colonization. He challenges the idea that AI will solve all problems and highlights the dangers of deepening inequalities. Becker argues that the obsession with escaping to other planets ignores critical issues on Earth, emphasizing the importance of preserving our own planet. This thought-provoking discussion touches on the ethical implications of technology, the influence of science fiction, and sociocultural biases in AI.

17 snips
May 8, 2025 • 1h 7min
Adam Becker: Silicon Valley's Crusade to Control Humanity's Fate
Science journalist Adam Becker, with a PhD in astrophysics, critiques Silicon Valley's obsession with tech-driven salvation. He challenges the narrative of digital immortality and space colonization as distractions from urgent issues like climate change. Becker exposes the dark motivations behind billionaire dreams, questioning the ethics of AI and the so-called 'network state.' He emphasizes the need for a democratic approach to technology and advocates for prioritizing societal well-being over unattainable tech fantasies.

15 snips
Sep 4, 2025 • 1h 1min
How long will Moore's Law continue boosting computing power? (featuring Dr. Adam Becker)
In this engaging conversation, Dr. Adam Becker, an astrophysicist and author known for his insights on quantum mechanics and technology's societal effects, dives into the future of computing. They explore the evolution of Moore's Law and its ramifications, considering the limits of current transistor technology. Adam discusses the double-edged sword of rapid advancements, touching on how these changes affect global issues and personal well-being. The dialogue emphasizes the need for a balanced approach to technology in solving complex societal challenges.

12 snips
Aug 22, 2025 • 34min
Escape, immortality, AI: Silicon Valley's blueprint for the future
In this discussion, Adam Becker, an astrophysicist and author, dives into the ambitious and often dystopian visions of tech moguls like Elon Musk and Jeff Bezos, who dream of colonizing Mars and populating space. He critiques the gap between their utopian aspirations and reality, suggesting we reconsider our dependence on technology for salvation. Becker also highlights the socio-economic disparities in these grand plans and warns against the tech elite's disdain for governance, which threatens democratic values. A thought-provoking exploration of our future!

12 snips
Aug 17, 2025 • 57min
"These F*cking People" with Adam Becker
In this discussion, Adam Becker, an astrophysicist and science journalist behind 'More Everything Forever,' challenges the grand narratives pushed by Silicon Valley. He critiques the fantasies of Mars colonization, AI sentience, and digital immortality as veils for control rather than science. With humor, Becker dismantles the elitist ideologies of tech billionaires, urging us to confront earthly realities over distant dreams. His insights on artificial intelligence and the human condition remind us of the limits imposed by nature and the folly of our technological arrogance.

9 snips
Apr 24, 2025 • 46min
Episode 2512: Adam Becker on AI Overlords, Space Empires, and Silicon Valley's Crusade to Control the Fate of Humanity
Adam Becker, a science journalist with a PhD in astrophysics, dives into the exaggerated fears surrounding artificial intelligence and critiques Silicon Valley's narratives. He argues that claims of existential AI threats are more science fiction than science fact. Becker connects modern AI rhetoric to troubling eugenic ideologies, emphasizing the need to address real issues like climate change. With a focus on the dangers of profit-driven tech motives, he warns that while AI presents some value, it may lead to more human misery rather than solutions.

5 snips
Apr 10, 2025 • 22min
Why Going Offline Might Save Us
Adam Becker, an astrophysicist and author, teams up with psychologist Jean Twenge, who studies the effects of the digital world on generations. They discuss how our dependence on screens is reshaping happiness and connection. The conversation highlights the alarming impact of social media on youth mental health, suggesting a digital detox could revitalize personal interactions. They explore the benefits of immersing in nature and reducing screen time to revive focus, creativity, and overall well-being.

Jun 22, 2025 • 1h 39min
U.S. strikes on Iran, Tech leaders' future visions, Sunday Politics Panel, Ed Helms
Arash Azizi, a contributing writer for The Atlantic, and Barbara Slavin from the Stimson Center discuss the implications of recent U.S. strikes on Iran, emphasizing the need for diplomatic solutions amid rising tensions. Astrophysicist Adam Becker takes a critical look at tech moguls' visions for the future, questioning their societal influence and the risks of unchecked AI development. Meanwhile, Ed Helms offers comedic insights into historical blunders, blending humor with lessons from the past, showcasing the importance of learning from our mistakes.