EconTalk

Join Oxford philosopher Nicholas Bostrom, author of 'Superintelligence,' as he explores a future where AI takes over labor and how we might thrive in a world of material abundance. He discusses the shift in societal values, questioning whether traditional work defines our identity. Bostrom tackles the allure of artificial versus genuine experiences, emphasizing the importance of human connections. Delving into education, he advocates for fostering creativity and personal growth, highlighting the need to reclaim a sense of wonder in our increasingly automated lives.

Glenn Loury, an influential economist and social critic, shares insights from his memoir, Late Admissions. He reflects on his Chicago upbringing, navigating academic life, and personal battles with addiction. Loury discusses the impact of race and socioeconomic factors on identity, his evolving views on accountability within the Black community, and the complexity of personal relationships shaped by differing political beliefs. This candid dialogue explores the journey from anger to emotional growth, highlighting the interplay between personal flaws and societal challenges.

A.J. Jacobs, author known for his immersive experiments, shares his insights on living by the U.S. Constitution in today's world. He humorously recounts his year-long endeavor of writing with a quill and reflects on the evolving nature of constitutional principles. Jacobs discusses the significance of the Supreme Court's legacy and explores the whimsical idea of creating a family constitution. He also highlights how historical voting practices inspired community-building projects and emphasizes the balance between tradition and modernity in democracy.

Discover the powerful connections that shaped standout conversations this year, with insights from guests like Charles Duhigg. Explore mind-blowing ideas, such as the unique way we perceive sound and its impact on learning. Reflect on the evolving focus beyond traditional economics, touching on personal experiences and broader human issues, including the Israeli-Palestinian conflict. Delve into philosophical questions about purpose and the complexities of making meaningful choices in life.

In this engaging discussion, psychologist Paul Bloom, known for his research on morality and the mind, dives into the fascinating and often unsettling world of digital immortality. He grapples with the ethical implications of AI simulations of deceased loved ones, questioning the authenticity of these interactions. Bloom also explores how technology reshapes grief and human connections, illustrating the tension between idealized AI relationships and genuine bonds. The conversation challenges listeners to consider how such advancements might redefine identity and memory.

Teppo Felin, a Professor of Strategy and Entrepreneurship at Utah State University and an associate scholar at Oxford, dives into the fascinating interplay between human cognition and AI. He argues that while AI suggests rational decision-making, it often overlooks the significant role of human belief and creativity. Felin uses the Wright brothers as a case study, illustrating how innovation stems from ignoring prevailing evidence. He emphasizes the importance of experience and cognitive flexibility in decision-making, highlighting that human intuition often outmatches data-driven models.

Join Michael Norton, a Harvard Business School professor and author of "The Ritual Effect," as he explores the enduring significance of rituals in our lives. He discusses how these practices provide meaning, calm our fears, and help manage stress, especially for elite athletes. Norton dives into how daily rituals foster connections in relationships and workplaces, shaping our emotional bonds. He also examines the impact of COVID-19 on personal rituals, encouraging listeners to adapt and appreciate the evolving nature of these meaningful traditions.

In this engaging conversation, psychologist Adam Mastroianni, known for his insights on emotional regulation, explores the curious notion of our emotional thermostat. He reveals that both happiness and sadness tend to gravitate towards a steady baseline, challenging the idea that higher happiness is always better. Mastroianni discusses how art influences our emotions, the complex relationship between happiness and material wealth, and even delves into the role of regret in shaping identity. His fresh perspectives invite listeners to rethink their understanding of joy and fulfillment.

Megan McArdle, an insightful author and columnist, joins the discussion to explore AI bias through the lens of Google's new AI, Gemini. They delve into how AI shapes cultural norms and the portrayal of historical figures, questioning biases in representation. McArdle highlights the dangers of suppressing debate on controversial topics and the need for open dialogue. The conversation also touches on the struggle between rule-based versus discretion-based technology, emphasizing the importance of maintaining human values in an increasingly digital world.

Ahmed Fouad Alkhatib, an activist and writer who grew up in Gaza before becoming an American citizen, shares his deeply personal experiences of loss in the region. He discusses the complexities of daily life under Hamas, revealing what many Gazans truly think. Alkhatib also explores the duality of Gaza's economy—both poverty and potential prosperity. Furthermore, he addresses the hostage crisis and emphasizes the need for diplomatic solutions, all while holding onto hope for a peaceful future for the Palestinian people.