Jacob Ward

Jacob Ward, a journalist and author known for exploring the intersections of behavior and technology, dives into the complexities of AI safety. He highlights AI's addictive nature and compares its rapid rise to gambling culture. The conversation addresses the ethical dilemmas of scaling technology, especially concerning mental health harms and the need for proper regulations. Ward also emphasizes the importance of cognitive liberty and long-term thinking in tech, warning against prioritizing product enthusiasm over safety.

Discover the impact of AI on our lives and the importance of making the right choices. Learn about tribology and how surfaces interact. Find out why emphasizing losses can be more powerful than gains in persuasion.

In a compelling conversation, Jacob Ward, a journalist and former editor-in-chief of Popular Science, discusses the profound impact of AI on human agency. He reveals how algorithmic systems shape our choices, highlighting the shift in his book's subtitle post-ChatGPT. Jacob shares insights from behavioral science about decision-making, emphasizing AI’s role in altering human behavior. He cautions against commercial AI's exploitation and stresses the need for strict safety measures in business, challenging listeners to rethink the ethics of AI.

Technology journalist Jacob Ward delves into President Trump's executive order on artificial intelligence, exploring its potential legal ramifications and the balance of power between federal and state regulations. Meanwhile, field reporter Leila Makhoul-Allen shares her firsthand account of settler violence in the West Bank, highlighting the devastating impact on Palestinian olive groves and local communities. Together, they shed light on critical issues at the intersection of technology and human rights.

In this engaging discussion, technology journalist Jacob Ward, author of The Loop, shares insights on OpenAI’s latest announcements. He and the hosts delve into the shifting nature of ChatGPT from a product to a broad platform, exploring implications for the app ecosystem. Jacob raises alarms about emotional reliance on AI companions and examines the extensive infrastructure needs for AI development. The conversation also touches on ethical considerations and the role of OpenAI’s nonprofit arm in tackling societal issues. It's a thought-provoking exploration of AI's future!