Oliver Hartwich

In this engaging discussion, Oliver Hartwich, a policy commentator and director of a New Zealand think tank, delves into the underestimated impact of AI on society. He emphasizes the need for curiosity, deep knowledge, and adaptability to fully harness AI’s capabilities. Hartwich also highlights how cultural attitudes, rather than geography, can hinder AI adoption. He argues for a robust educational framework to empower future generations, predicting a societal divide between those adept at using AI and those left behind.

Dr. Oliver Hartwich, Executive Director of The New Zealand Initiative and expert in political philosophy, dives into fascinating themes such as the roots of Enlightenment thinking traced back to Leonardo da Vinci. He discusses the post-war order's fragility, mentioning the impact of significant historical events like 9/11 and the 2008 financial crisis. Hartwich warns of declining civic knowledge and the fragmentation of society, and he frames AI as an amplifier of change, questioning its effects on democratic values. Join for a compelling exploration of where today's challenges may lead us.

Dr. Oliver Hartwich, Executive Director of the NZ Initiative, delves into the current state of democracy and the rise of populism. He critiques the evolution of political alignments, using case studies from Europe and the aftermath of Trump in the U.S. Hartwich highlights the tensions between authoritarianism and freedoms, particularly in New Zealand, while reflecting on historical political landscapes. He also tackles issues of disinformation and the complexities of political legacy, focusing on figures like Gerhard Schröder and the implications of corruption in democratic institutions.