Conversations with Tyler

Cass Sunstein, a leading legal scholar and author, captivates with insights on liberalism's challenges in the age of AI. He discusses the vulnerability of liberalism to illiberal forces and the risks posed by human nature. Sunstein dives into immigration, advocating for humane policies while acknowledging integration concerns. He explores the implications of AI on speech rights and proposes a legal right against manipulation. The conversation surprisingly links Bob Dylan to themes of freedom and self-invention, all while anticipating Sunstein’s next projects on animal rights.

Blake Scholl, Founder and CEO of Boom Supersonic, is revolutionizing commercial aviation with new supersonic aircraft. He advocates for underground airport terminals and efficient boarding solutions to enhance travel speed and comfort. Scholl critiques outdated security protocols and proposes trusted traveler programs. He contrasts Amazon's long-term strategies with Groupon's short-term fixes, and reveals insights into the lessons learned from the Concorde. Additionally, he discusses how LLMs could streamline regulatory paperwork. Expect a vision of faster, smarter air travel!

Donald S. Lopez Jr., a prominent Buddhist studies scholar at the University of Michigan, dives deep into the complexities of Buddhism. He examines the historical Buddha's 32 physical marks and the enigma of his death, pondering the real narrative behind his final meal. Lopez also delves into the theological implications of Buddhism's atheism, the unique features of Zen practice, and the evolution of its teachings in the digital age. He reflects on his journey into Buddhist scholarship and shares thoughts on adapting ancient stories to modern formats.

Sam Altman, CEO of OpenAI, dives into the rapidly evolving world of AI and its societal impact. He discusses how OpenAI harnesses delegation to boost productivity and the differences in hiring between hardware and AI talent. Altman forecasts that soon, entire divisions will function primarily on AI. He explores the potential of GPT-6 in revolutionizing scientific research and worries about unintentional AI persuasion. With insights on health, culture, and the future landscape of work, his perspectives offer a thought-provoking look at the AI-driven world.

Jonny Steinberg, a notable South African writer and academic, dives into the intricacies of crime and punishment in South Africa. He unpacks the reluctance of police to confront crowds, offering innovative solutions for reform. Steinberg also reveals the complexities of Nelson and Winnie Mandela's marriage, showcasing their limited knowledge of each other despite profound devotion. Additionally, he discusses the lasting legacy of apartheid on mass incarceration, the changing perceptions of the ANC, and the future of South African literature.

George Selgin, an economist and monetary policy expert, dives into the complexities surrounding the New Deal and its actual impact on the Great Depression. He reveals the surprising lack of effective fiscal stimulus and critiques Roosevelt’s gold revaluation strategy. Selgin discusses the profound effects of regime uncertainty and how missteps in policy led to the 1937-38 recession. With a humorous twist, he also shares anecdotes about his life in Spain, including a fractional-reserve donkey ownership scheme that highlights his whimsical yet insightful approach to economics.

John Amaechi, a former NBA player, psychologist, and bestselling author, dives into leadership in sports and beyond. He discusses the hidden impacts of workplace culture shaped by tolerating poor behavior. Amaechi critiques the university sports system for neglecting athletes' personal growth. He candidly shares his journey as a gay player, addressing the struggle with homophobia in sports. The conversation also covers mental health, the significance of therapy, and the fallacies of personality testing, while emphasizing leadership as a skill earned through practice.

Cognitive psychologist and bestselling author Steven Pinker dives into the concept of common knowledge, emphasizing its role in human coordination and societal functions. He debates whether deep recursive knowledge is truly necessary for everyday interactions, like navigating traffic circles. Alongside Tyler, he explores the pros and cons of anonymity in online discourse, discusses benign hypocrisies in society, and examines the retreat of liberal enlightenment. The conversation touches on the challenges of rational agreement and the influence of linguistics on AI, all sprinkled with humor and insights.

David Commins, an expert on Saudi Arabia and author of "Saudi Arabia: A Modern History", delves into the complexities of Wahhabism and its significant role in state-building. The conversation covers the historical discrimination against Shiites, the implications of the 1979 Grand Mosque seizure, and the motivations behind Saudi sports investments. Commins also discusses Yemen's instability, barriers in education, and Saudi Arabia's transition to a post-oil economy. His insights offer a captivating view into the challenges and future of the Gulf States.

Seamus Murphy, an Irish photographer and filmmaker, shares his gripping experiences from conflict zones around the world. He discusses the resilient spirit of Afghanistan and the complex cultural implications of Taliban rule. Murphy reflects on Ireland's cultural shifts since the Celtic Tiger era and contrasts that with his time in America and India. He recounts near-death encounters with Boko Haram in Nigeria and explores the visual parallels between American and Russian life through his photography. Join him for a vivid journey through art, conflict, and cultural identity.