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.

Thomas Moynihan, a historian focused on human extinction, teams up with Benjamin Bratton, a philosopher of technology. Together, they explore how humanity's understanding of time and extinction has evolved, shifting from religious prophecies to scientific realities. They discuss the cosmic significance of extinction, the ethical implications of AI and planetary intelligence, and how these ideas change our obligations to future generations. Their conversation dives deep into the interconnectedness of life and technology, urging listeners to rethink existence and responsibility.