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Gary Marcus, a cognitive psychologist and computer scientist known for his critical views on AI, joins Daniel Barcay for a compelling discussion. They explore the contrasting perceptions of AI's future, debating whether we are on the brink of something incredible or facing imminent challenges. Marcus emphasizes the urgent need for regulatory frameworks to address the risks of generative AI, particularly its potential for disinformation. He advocates for independent oversight in technology regulation to prioritize public good over corporate interests.

Casey Mock, Policy Director at the Center for Humane Technology, dives into the urgent need for a legal framework to regulate AI. With companies racing ahead, he discusses the importance of holding AI developers accountable for harms caused by their products. Mock highlights real-world examples, such as deepfake scams, to emphasize the risks of unregulated AI. He advocates for innovative yet flexible regulations that balance consumer protection with the need for innovation, exploring how to design laws that keep pace with fast-moving technology.

Acclaimed psychotherapist Esther Perel dives into the unsettling concept of 'Artificial Intimacy' and its impact on relationships. She warns that reliance on technology can lead to alienation rather than connection. The discussion highlights the ethical concerns of virtual interactions, emphasizing the need for authentic human experiences. They explore the role of technology in shaping intimacy and the importance of balancing digital and physical interactions to foster genuine connections. Perel encourages embracing the full spectrum of human emotions for deeper relationships.

Margaret O'Mara, a historian focused on the development of technology's societal impact, joins journalist Brody Mullins to explore the tech industry's lobby power in Washington, DC. They discuss how Silicon Valley's lobbying tactics evolved over the past decade. The duo highlights grassroots mobilization's importance amid bipartisan skepticism towards big tech. Listeners learn about historical parallels in corporate influence on legislation and the pressing need for consumer advocacy to balance power dynamics between tech giants and the public.

Sasha Fegan interviews tech ethicists Tristan Harris, co-founder of the Center for Humane Technology, and Aza Raskin, a pioneer in user experience design. They explore the explosive growth of AI and its societal implications since their last discussion, emphasizing the urgent need for regulation. The conversation highlights recent advancements in social media reform, including the Kids Online Safety Act, and delves into the balance between AI innovation and safety protocols, calling for accountability and cooperative solutions for a secure technological future.

Biologist Kevin Esvelt discusses AI's impact on biological research, highlighting benefits in medicine and public health while addressing concerns of biosecurity threats. The conversation delves into the power of AI in predicting protein activities, designing disease prevention tools, and the urgent need for tighter regulations in genetic research to mitigate risks of creating dangerous viruses.

Dr. Anil Seth discusses AI consciousness, ethics, and incentives. They explore the difference between intelligence and consciousness, ethical concerns, and the impact on human language. The conversation delves into metaphors for the mind, ethical implications of AI consciousness, and lessons from 'Frankenstein'. They emphasize caution in AI development and the distinction between intelligence and consciousness.

Petra Molnar discusses how borders have become a testing ground for AI technologies impacting migrants. The podcast explores the use of advanced surveillance measures, the rise of the border industry complex, economic incentives for EU border enforcement, challenges with surveillance tech, and the need for long-term solutions for migrants.

Former OpenAI engineer William Saunders sheds light on the prioritization of profit over safety in tech companies. He discusses the 'right to warn' for employees raising AI risk concerns, emphasizing transparency and the need for regulatory protection. The episode explores the challenges of AI safety, confidential whistleblowing, and the impact of independent evaluation on tech product safety.

Expert in AI weapons and drones in warfare, Paul Scharre, discusses the future of autonomous warfare, ethical considerations, and the need for safeguards. Topics include advancements in autonomous weaponry, moral complexities in combat situations, ethical concerns in the use of autonomous weapons, and the importance of regulations and international agreements in AI warfare.