Astral Codex Ten Podcast
Jeremiah
The official audio version of Astral Codex Ten, with an archive of posts from Slate Star Codex. It's just me reading Scott Alexander's blog posts.
Episodes
Mentioned books
Nov 1, 2024 • 42min
SB 1047: Our Side Of The Story
Dive into the intriguing world of AI safety and regulation! Discover the unexpected journey of a passionate advocate who influences a state senator on AI risks. Explore the clash between corporate interests and societal values as socialist media weighs in on the SB 1047 bill. Unpack the rapid advancements in AI technology and their potential military implications. Finally, navigate the complex politics of AI regulation and the coalition building necessary to address its risks, while maintaining a glimmer of hope for the future.
Oct 26, 2024 • 29min
Triple Tragedy And Thankful Theory
A survivor recounts a harrowing car crash that reveals a hidden brain tumor, exposing flaws in healthcare communication. The discussion shifts to the conflict between survival and thriving, particularly how these concepts clash in human health and artificial intelligence. Urgency's impact on decision-making in these systems is analyzed, offering insights into improving collaboration. A groundbreaking theory emerges, promising to bridge gaps and enhance understanding in life's most challenging circumstances.
Oct 26, 2024 • 6min
Against The Cultural Christianity Argument
The discussion dives into the cultural Christianity argument, positing that even atheists appreciate societies influenced by Christian values. It debates the idea that as society strays from these roots, a decline in cultural and moral aesthetics follows. The speaker critiques the notion that cultural Christianity is vital for stability and calls for new cultural frameworks rather than a return to outdated traditions. Historical insights reveal a complex relationship between modernism and societal evolution.
Oct 26, 2024 • 17min
Preliminary Milei Report Card
The podcast dives into Javier Milei's polarizing presidency in Argentina. Supporters tout successes like transforming deficits into surpluses, while critics warn of skyrocketing inflation and severe poverty. It explores the impact of drastic public spending cuts and reforms, showcasing the dilemma between immediate economic pain and possible long-term gains. With contrasting narratives from the political spectrum, listeners gain insights into whether Argentina is on the path to recovery or facing deeper troubles.
Oct 19, 2024 • 9min
How Often Do Men Think About Rome?
This discussion dives into a whimsical survey on how frequently people think about the Roman Empire. Surprisingly, both men and women share similar thought patterns on this ancient topic. Personal anecdotes reveal unique connections to Rome's legacy. The conversation also highlights the lasting influence of the Roman Empire on our governance and culture today, illustrating its significance in modern life. Expect humor and thoughtful insights that bridge the past with the present!
Oct 19, 2024 • 38min
Your Book Review: The Ballad of the White Horse
Dive into the epic tale of 'The Ballad of the White Horse,' focusing on King Alfred the Great's legendary struggle against the Vikings. Explore the rich themes of conservatism, hope, and resilience as Alfred navigates fate and despair. Delve into the seven virtues of Catholic theology, emphasizing hope as a powerful act of will. Witness the tension between progressivism and conservatism, and discover how active preservation can uphold cultural legacies amidst challenges. A journey of poetry, philosophy, and the indomitable human spirit awaits!
Oct 16, 2024 • 17min
Sakana, Strawberry, and Scary AI
A Japanese startup has developed an AI scientist called Sakana, which generates computer science hypotheses, but its outputs are often criticized as trivial and poorly reasoned. The discussion examines misconceptions surrounding AI's intelligence and its inability to truly understand concepts. Philosophical inquiries into AI consciousness raise questions about the cognitive processes involved. The podcast also highlights potential misinterpretations of AI's intentions and the evolving challenges of ensuring safety in an era of rapid technological advancement.
Oct 16, 2024 • 18min
Mantic Monday 9/16/24
A new AI forecasting tool claims to outperform human forecasters, sparking debates about its credibility. With the rise of political betting, platforms like Polymarket and discussions on ethical concerns are gaining traction. The dynamics of prediction markets are explored, along with fluctuating probabilities tied to political figures. Legal battles in the realm of political betting unfold, revealing challenges and the potential influence of Large Language Models on future strategies.
Oct 14, 2024 • 46min
Your Book Review: Nine Lives
Discover the incredible journey of Aimen Dean, a figure who navigated a life of turmoil and transformation. Explore the motivations behind jihadist movements, including religious prophecies that shape their actions. Delve into how groups like Al-Qaeda use chaos as a strategy and the ethical complexities surrounding terrorism. Unravel the intricate web of the Moscow bombings, revealing connections between extremists and intelligence. This discussion challenges conventional views on good and evil, highlighting the multifaceted nature of human motivations.
11 snips
Oct 1, 2024 • 28min
Links For September 2024
Dive into the complexities of kidney donor compensation and genetic personality traits, uncovering how historical influences shaped early Christianity. Explore how ultra-Orthodox norms affect fertility in Israel and the political implications of legal training in the U.S. Delve into the heated debates on drug decriminalization, global socio-political challenges, and the philosophical questions of belief systems. Unpack pressing issues like anti-Semitic attacks and the ethics of online advertising, all while navigating the landscape of Rationalist thought and the evolving political scene.


