Being good ancestors is important for irreversible things like extinctions and climate change. However, future generations will likely know more and be richer than us, so there is a case for looking out for our own interests. We should focus on increasing possibilities and choices for the next generation, rather than making plans for them. The next generation will have to figure out things that we can't, so it is important to equip them with the ability to make great decisions. Long-term responsibility should be accompanied by long-term imagination, which involves imagining new choices and possibilities. Intelligence is not the only factor for success, as enthusiasm and imagination are also crucial. The key aspect of imagination is envisioning an alternative way of doing things, and it is not solely based on IQ.
Kevin Kelly believes A.I. will create more problems for humanity — and help us solve them. He talks to Steve about embracing complexity, staying enthusiastic, and taking the 10,000-year view.