Will MacAskill, a philosopher and AI strategy researcher, discusses the potentially explosive advancements in AI that could compress a century's worth of change into just ten years. He elaborates on the implications of AI surpassing human capabilities, leading to rapid scientific progress and the urgency of adapting societal institutions. MacAskill also highlights the critical risks associated with AI, such as power concentration and ethical dilemmas, calling for proactive governance and alignment with human values to navigate this unprecedented transformation.

Will MacAskill (@willmacaskill) is an Associate Professor in Philosophy at Lincoln College, Oxford. Just 28 years old, he is likely the youngest associate (i.e. tenured) professor of philosophy in the world. Will is the author of Doing Good Better and a co-founder of the "effective altruism" movement. He has pledged to donate everything he earns over ~$36,000 per year to whatever charities he believes will be most effective. He has also cofounded two well-known non-profits: 80,000 Hours, which provides research and advice on how you can best make a difference through your career, and Giving What We Can, which encourages people to commit to give at least 10% of their income to the most effective charities. Between them, they have raised more than $450 million in lifetime pledged donations, and are in the top 1% of non-profits in terms of growth. He is one of the few non-profit founders who have gone through Y Combinator; for-profit companies get $120,000 for 7% of equity; as a non-profit, 80,000 Hours got $100,000 for 0% of equity. In this episode, we discuss his story and a ton of actionable tips, including: Why "following your passion" in a career is often a mistake. Thought experiments: Pascal's Wager versus Pascal's Mugging Why working for a non-profit straight out of college is also a mistake. How it's possible to "hack" doing good in the same way you would a business. Implications of artificial intelligence. The best ways to really evaluate if you (or charities) are going good in the world. The reasons donating to disaster relief typically isn't the best use of your money. Why ethical consumerism typically isn't a great way to do good. Running a non-profit in the Harvard/Navy SEALs of startup incubators: Y Combinator This podcast is brought to you by Wealthfront. 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Will MacAskill, co-author of ‘Preparing for the Intelligence Explosion’ and AI safety expert, dives into the thrilling world of artificial general intelligence. He discusses the rapid advancements in AI and potential challenges for humanity as technology outpaces decision-making processes. The conversation touches on the societal implications of an intelligence explosion, including geopolitical tensions and existential risks. MacAskill also explores ethical considerations for AI governance and the impact of these technologies on our future, including in space exploration.

Will MacAskill, a philosopher and co-founder of Effective Altruism, discusses the importance of long-term thinking for humanity's future. He explores existential risks, the implications of technological advancements, and the need for moral flexibility in governance. MacAskill emphasizes how today's actions can shape the lives of trillions to come. He also critiques societal norms, like the 'Happy Birthday' song, and advocates for proactive measures to ensure a thriving future while navigating potential threats like engineered pandemics.

Join Will MacAskill, a philosopher from the University of Oxford and a key figure in effective altruism, as he shares insights from his upcoming book, 'What We Owe The Future.' He navigates the delicate balance between frugality and ambition in nonprofit work, especially when funding surges. Will discusses the mental health challenges and risks of burnout amidst increased responsibilities. The conversation highlights the importance of recognizing unsung heroes in activism and the need for moral considerations in philanthropy and long-term thinking.

Will MacAskill, a philosopher and AI safety researcher at the Forethought Centre, discusses the staggering potential of AI to compress a century's worth of change into a mere decade. He emphasizes the urgent need to prepare for rapid societal shifts and explores what a positive future with AGI might look like. MacAskill raises crucial concerns about the risks of societal lock-in and public distrust in utopian visions. He also delves into the ethical dilemmas surrounding AGI development and its profound impacts on governance and social values.

Moral philosopher Will MacAskill and Chris discuss how to maximize impact in altruism by using evidence and focusing efforts on pressing global issues efficiently. They explore the complexities of prioritizing some issues over others and the philosophical questions behind effective altruism.

In this episode, we discuss Ali's theoretically life-changing conversation with Will MacAskill, a professor of moral philosophy, about how to orient his career for impact rather than personal gain. Taimur is skeptical. Watch this episode on YouTube (along with all our others) - https://www.youtube.com/c/NotOverthinkingAli's Podcast - Deep Dive - https://www.youtube.com/c/DeepDivewithAliAbdaal (the interview with Will MacAskill should be out in August 2022) 80,000 Hours - https://80000hours.org/ali Will MacAskill - https://twitter.com/willmacaskillWill's new book - What we Owe the Future - https://www.whatweowethefuture.com/ 

Philosophy Professor Will MacAskill, a co-founder of the Effective Altruism community, dives deep into moral responsibility and the impact of our everyday choices. He presents a thought experiment about life's fragility, examining how even small actions can ripple through time, influencing future generations. They discuss the ongoing shifts within higher education, the complexities of navigating altruism in a pivotal historical context, and the urgent need for long-term thinking in addressing existential risks—from AI to climate change.

Will MacAskill, an Oxford philosophy professor and a key voice in the effective altruism movement, delves into its aims to maximize global welfare. He addresses the backlash against the movement due to Sam Bankman-Fried's involvement, advocating for a reevaluation of its principles. The discussion explores critical topics like ethical obligations towards altruism, the risks of modern technology, and the necessity of long-term thinking in the face of existential threats like AI. MacAskill encourages listeners to rethink their choices for a brighter future.