Benjamin Bratton

Benjamin Bratton, a Professor at UC San Diego and Director of the Antikythera think tank, dives into the fascinating realm of planetary computation. He connects ancient technologies like the Antikythera mechanism to modern challenges, emphasizing how our tech outpaces our understanding. Bratton discusses how artificial intelligence interacts with our ecological existence and the philosophical implications of our evolving cognitive landscape. He urges a shift in thinking about intelligence and collaboration as we navigate the complexities of the future.

Sara Imari Walker, an esteemed astrobiologist and leader in assembly theory, joins Benjamin Bratton to discuss the intricate question: What is life? They delve into assembly theory's implications, revealing how life creates complex structures and how this complexity is rare in the universe. The conversation spans the intersection of time, space, and technology, proposing that time can be visualized as a physical entity. They also explore new frameworks to understand life’s origins and the potential of extraterrestrial existence.

In this conversation, Benjamin Bratton, a Professor of Philosophy of Technology and Director at Antikythera, shares his insights on planetary-scale computation. He compares his interdisciplinary work to a platypus, seamlessly blending diverse fields. The discussion dives into how artificial intelligence evolves like biology, highlighting concepts like allopoiesis. Bratton also examines the implications of AI agents on human identity, urging us to rethink individual agency in a tech-driven world. Lastly, he explores the idea of Earth having its own computational consciousness.