Lawrence Lessig, a renowned law professor and activist focused on internet law and democracy, dives into the chilling impact of AI on democratic systems. He warns of the exploitation of human nature by AI and its potential to distort public perception, notably around misinformation from events like the 2020 election. Lessig discusses how corporate influence can overshadow democracy and highlights the essential role of citizen assemblies in safeguarding democratic integrity from these emerging tech threats.

Leopoldo Lopez, a notable freedom fighter and leader against Venezuela's authoritarian regime, shares his gripping journey of imprisonment and exile. He highlights the alarming fact that 72% of the world lives under autocracy, urging a collective effort to defend democracy. His experiences as mayor of Caracas shine a light on the daily struggles within dictatorship. Lopez also discusses the recent electoral repression in Venezuela and emphasizes the importance of international unity in promoting freedom and resilience against oppression.

Nikolaus S. Lang, an international business consultant specializing in geopolitical trends, discusses the evolving dynamics of a multipolar world. He emphasizes the need for business leaders to adapt to emerging coalitions among nations like China, Russia, and India. Lang outlines five key strategies for resilience, including strengthening supply chains and enhancing cybersecurity. He warns of the importance of developing a 'geopolitical muscle' to navigate crises and highlights the improbability of large-scale conflicts in the near future.

In this whimsical talk and performance, musician and comedian Elle Cordova ponders what happened before the Big Bang. She’s then joined by guitarist Toni Lindgren for the original song “Carl Sagan,” exploring social media, human connection and how we’re all just reaching out like stars in the night sky. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Malcolm Gladwell, an acclaimed author known for his bestselling book 'The Tipping Point,' reflects on his past analysis of crime rates in New York City. He admits his earlier views inadvertently supported the controversial 'stop and frisk' policy. Gladwell emphasizes how journalists should recognize that stories evolve and are never truly over. He shares personal insights on urban transformation and the necessity of empathy in discussing policing. The conversation also touches on adapting to uncertainty, especially in the context of AI's role in business.

Daro Sulakauri, a TED Fellow and photojournalist, sheds light on Georgia's struggles under Russian occupation. Through her evocative photography, she captures the rich culture and resilience of her homeland, emphasizing the need for visibility in a global context. The conversation also dives into the emotional weight of the black market baby trade, revealing harrowing stories of separation and reunion. Sulakauri’s work serves as a powerful testament to personal narratives and the human stories that shape a nation's identity amid geopolitical tensions.

Each Sunday, TED shares an episode of another podcast we think you'll love, handpicked for you… by us. Whether it’s grades and test scores, cushy jobs or big salaries, our ideas of “success” tend to be incredibly narrow and often start incredibly early. Julie Lythcott-Haims is a New York Times bestselling author and former Dean of Freshmen at Stanford, and she is dedicated to helping people reconsider what really makes a happy, “successful” adult. In this episode of How to Be a Better Human, another podcast from the TED Audio Collective, Julie shares wisdom for parents and anyone who has been parented on why it’s crucial to question societal expectations, how to find your own path and why empathy towards yourself and others are the true key to loving who you’ll grow up to be. Get more How to Be a Better Human wherever you get your podcasts.For the full text transcript, visit go.ted.com/BHTranscripts Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this podcast, Eric Nuzum, an author uncovering the evolution of vampire lore, dives into the chilling myths surrounding these creatures. He explains why vampires don’t cast reflections, revealing their deeper symbolic ties to societal fears. Nuzum examines how historical misunderstandings and pop culture have transformed vampire narratives from terrifying figures to sparkling icons. He also critiques the media's impact on our perception of vampires, suggesting they reflect our most profound anxieties.

Join executive coach Daniel Hallak as he transforms the way we think about networking. He challenges the uncomfortable truths of traditional networking, promoting a mindset where relationships are built on generosity rather than transactions. Hallak shares personal stories to illustrate that by focusing on serving others, we can forge genuine connections. Discover how to reimagine networking as a natural, enjoyable process that fosters career growth and ethical integrity, making it an enriching experience for everyone involved.

Franziska Trautmann, a waste alchemist and founder of Glass Half Full, talks about using recycled glass bottles to combat coastal erosion. She shares how her journey turned simple waste into a solution for restoring Louisiana's shores. The conversation emphasizes community engagement and its crucial role in environmental projects. Trautmann also addresses the challenges of scaling glass recycling initiatives, highlighting the importance of innovation and funding in expanding these efforts to other regions.