Astral Codex Ten Podcast

The podcast explores the debate on whether capitalism is more effective than charity in creating wealth and alleviating poverty. It discusses three ways of giving to capitalism and raises objections using Instacart as an example. The benefits of capitalism and charity are compared, considering factors such as job creation and permanence. Various strategies are explored, including donating to capitalist charities and investing in socially responsible companies. The chapter also discusses exceptional non-profits, investment costs, and platforms for effective altruism.

Exploring why depressed individuals prefer sad music and how it affects their mood. Understanding anorexia as a lipostat disorder and its parallels with fevers and depression. The impact of depression on mood and behavior, and the principles of behavioral activation and cognitive behavioral therapy. Delving into set points and their impact on various conditions, including depression and anorexia, and discussing predictive coding theories and their relevance to cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) and depression.

A discussion on the biblical story of Onan's greed and the historical context of wasting semen. The challenges of twin pregnancy, including physical ailments and the influence of names. Exploring predictability, advancements in technology, and the fragility of life. Parenting twins, lack of sleep, and unique challenges. Teaching independence and the changing nature of parenting in a skill-driven society.

Rumors and suspicions surrounding Sam Altman's firing, addictive food, tunnel digging, conspiracy theories, paying politicians not to run, conversation about religion and pragmatism, Ukraine war and sentient AI.

Learn about applying for ACX grants and exploring impact markets. Discover potential funders for ACX grants and the concept of impact certificates. Explore the EA Infrastructure Fund and tax implications. Hear the story behind the grants program and their desire to give back to the community.

Aaron Silverbook, Founder of Lantern Bioworks, discusses their genetically modified bacterium that could eliminate tooth decay. Topics include Silicon Valley biotech's route to commercialization, concerns about the strain's spread, alcohol production by the bacterium and its effects on the body, FDA approval of genetically modified probiotics, and how to obtain the product from Lantern Bioworks.

The podcast explores the implications of abolishing the FDA and legalizing drugs like Adderall, painkillers, methamphetamine, cocaine, fentanyl, marijuana, and LSD. It discusses the challenges of determining drug safety and effectiveness without FDA regulations, including the manipulation of studies by pharmaceutical companies. The podcast also proposes policy changes such as legalizing artificial supplements and explores alternatives to switching from supplement to drug for FDA approval.

Exploring OpenAI markets and predictions, usage of betting functionality on a dating site, update of Metaculous scoring system, and discussion on predictions related to Venezuela, Argentina, and the Middle East. Also, surprising moves in the AI field and potential prediction market dating show.

They discuss November 2023 links, heroic act of charity, Hezbollah video game, voter perceptions, personal growth. Other topics include gratitude journalism, dopamine and BMI, attack on LLMs, Calvin and Hobbes copyright, and data fraud allegations. Rebuttal on statistical evidence, genetic predispositions, diet soda and autism, philanthropy, synodality, and teaching DBT. Covers DBT effectiveness, failed world constitution, Scientology's headquarters. Explores the impact of AI, need for legislation, and policy goals.

Analyzing Freddy de Boar's critique of effective altruism and countering objections to its beliefs. Discussing principles of effective altruism, personal experiences, and the role of social technology. Exploring organizations in the value altruism movement and judging movements based on power.