Tech Won't Save Us

In this discussion, Paolo Benanti, an author and academic who advises Pope Francis on AI ethics, explores the Church's stance on artificial intelligence. He reveals insights on how the Vatican approaches technology, emphasizing the ethical implications for social justice and human dignity. The conversation touches on the dual nature of AI, the necessity for human-centered discussions, and the potential collaboration between faith and technology in navigating ethical challenges. Benanti argues for the Church's crucial role in guiding these conversations.

Matt Pearce, Director of Policy at Rebuild Local News and former Los Angeles Times reporter, discusses the pressing issues facing journalism today. He highlights the impact of Google's AI reducing traffic to news sites, which threatens traditional business models. Pearce delves into the tension between tech companies and news publishers, emphasizing the need for empathy in journalism. He also explores 'Google Zero,' a scenario where news outlets lose vital referral traffic, raising concerns about the future of credible journalism in an AI-dominated landscape.

Jacob Silverman, a journalist and author of the upcoming book Gilded Rage, dives deep into the intertwining of tech and politics. He discusses the alarming Islamophobic remarks from a Sequoia partner, revealing how right-wing ideology has infiltrated Silicon Valley. Silverman also unveils how Donald Trump is profiting from crypto scams, highlighting the dangers of legislation like the GENIUS Act. The conversation warns about the risks posed by integrating cryptocurrency into retirement savings and the broader implications for the economy amidst growing deregulation.

Dan McQuillan, a lecturer at Goldsmiths College and author of Resisting AI, discusses the urgent need to rethink our relationship with artificial intelligence. He critiques the UK government's corporate-driven AI policies and highlights the environmental concerns related to data centers. McQuillan advocates for 'decomputing' as a means to reclaim agency and foster technologies that serve the public good. He also shares inspiring examples of collective action for sustainability, emphasizing the importance of community engagement in resisting oppressive systems.

Nathan Grayson, co-founder of the worker-owned gaming news site Aftermath and author of 'Stream Big,' dives into the tumultuous state of the video game industry. He discusses Microsoft's recent layoffs and shifting focus from game ownership to subscription models, raising concerns about long-term impacts on studios. The ethical implications of AI integration in the workplace are explored, along with the potential profitability of Microsoft's Game Pass. Grayson highlights the struggles faced by employees and the challenges within the gaming landscape.

Laleh Khalili, a Professor of Gulf Studies at the University of Exeter and author of Extractive Capitalism, discusses how the U.S. leverages technology to influence power dynamics in the Middle East. She examines the historical ties between tech and imperialism, focusing on how nations like Israel and Iran navigate these complexities. The podcast delves into AI's role in warfare, military funding, and the concerning shift towards militarization of technology, urging listeners to reconsider the implications for society.

Yangyang Cheng, a Research Scholar in Law at Yale, dives deep into Huawei's evolution from a local telecom supplier to a global tech leader amidst U.S.-China tensions. The discussion highlights how geopolitical narratives often distract from significant issues like surveillance capitalism. Cheng challenges the criticisms levied against Huawei, pointing out the complexities of national pride and the ethical dimensions of technology. The conversation underscores the need for a nuanced view of tech as both a tool for connection and a vehicle for corporate exploitation.

Nitasha Tiku, a technology reporter at The Washington Post, discusses the troubling parallels between chatbots and social media's harms. She highlights how AI companies exploit users for engagement, potentially worsening isolation. The conversation covers the rapid evolution of chatbots, ethical concerns surrounding privacy and manipulation, and the urgent need for accountability in tech. Tiku also emphasizes the risks involved in using chatbots for sensitive issues like mental health, advocating for better oversight and responsible practices in AI development.

Laís Martins, a technology reporter at The Intercept Brasil, dives into Brazil's ongoing battle against big tech companies. She discusses Brazil's regulatory moves against platforms like X and Rumble, emphasizing the political motivations behind them. The conversation highlights Justice Alexandre de Moraes' pivotal role in shaping tech regulations amid fears for democracy. Laís also explores Brazil's struggle for social media regulation and the complexities of attracting AI investment, while seeking digital sovereignty against the influence of U.S. tech giants.

Karen Hao, an award-winning journalist and author of *Empire of AI*, discusses the troubling impact of OpenAI's relentless pursuit of scale. She highlights how this strategy has led to exploitation, worsened data privacy issues, and environmental harm. The conversation delves into the commercialization of AI and its colonial legacy, critiquing the disconnect between OpenAI's founding ideals and current practices. Hao also emphasizes the risks of overemphasizing generative AI at the expense of other essential research areas, advocating for a more ethical approach to technology development.