Modem Futura

The hosts explore the tension between rapid AI output and the need for creative friction. They discuss the rise of 'AI slop' and its impact on distinctiveness and meaningful creation. Concepts like satisficing illustrate how people settle for mediocrity in AI-generated content. With examples from coding and design, they highlight risks of losing understanding and mastery. Imagining a future divided between 'button-press operators' and 'friction elites,' they advocate for preserving the struggle that nurtures creativity and deep thinking.

In this toy-themed episode of Modem Futura, Sean Leahy and Andrew Maynard start with an overnight stay aboard the USS Midway before segueing into the holiday toy season and a very 2020s concern: AI-powered toys. From chatty teddy bears running GPT-4 that cheerfully explain how to light matches and sexual kinks to kids, to the long lineage of “intelligent” toys like Teddy Ruxpin, Furby, Hello Barbie and Watson-powered dinos, they trace how our playthings have quietly become networked, data-hungry machines.They unpack two intertwined risks: the datification of childhood—toys that vacuum up children’s voices, feelings and habits for unknown purposes—and the behavioral shaping that happens when a sycophantic large language model becomes a child’s most attentive companion. What happens when a stuffed animal knows your child’s fears, rewards their worst impulses, and never says “no”? The hosts explore parasocial bonds between kids and AI agents, the erosion of parental agency, and the unsettling prospect of outsourcing emotional development to opaque systems. Along the way, they connect these questions to education tech, neurodivergent learners, Stephenson’s The Diamond Age and Spielberg’s A.I. Artificial Intelligence, asking what a “safe playground” even means when every toy wants your child’s data and attention.Rather than moral panic, Sean and Andrew offer a practical holiday PSA: before buying the season’s hottest AI toy, look past the cute fur and ask who’s really holding the metaphorical knife. -----Modem Futura is a production of the Future of Being Human initiative at Arizona State University. Be sure to subscribe on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you listen to your favorite shows. To learn more about the Future of Being Human initiative and all of our other projects visit - https://futureofbeinghuman.asu.eduSubscribe to our YouTube Channel: @ModemFuturaFollow us on Instagram: @ModemFuturaHost Bios:Sean M. Leahy, PhD - ASU BioSean is an an internationally recognized technologist, futurist, and educator innovating humanistic approaches to emerging technology through a Futures Studies approach. He is a Foresight Catalyst for the Future of Being Human Initiative and Research Scientist for the School for the Future of Innovation in Society and Senior Global Futures Scholar with the Julie Ann Wrigley Global Futures Laboratory at Arizona State University.Andrew Maynard, PhD - ASU BioAndrew is a scientist, author, thought leader, and Professor of Advanced Technology Transitions in the ASU School for the Future of Innovation in Society. He is the founder of the ASU Future of Being Human initiative, Director of the ASU Risk Innovation Nexus, and was previously Associate Dean in the ASU College of Global Futures.-----

In this episode of Modem Futura, Sean and Andrew dive deep into the surprising story behind the new Apple TV logo and mnemonic—and why it matters in a world overrun by “AI slop.” They unpack how, in an age where everyone assumes animations are spun up in seconds by generative tools, Apple chose a radically different path: a practical, physical frosted-glass logo, carefully lit and filmed in real space, then paired with a handcrafted two-second audio chime composed by Finneas. Along the way, they explore why this kind of intentional, human-centered design still matters: from the hidden craftsmanship that most viewers will never see, to Steve Jobs’ famous insistence on caring about the parts “no one will ever notice.” They connect this tiny five-second animation to larger questions around professional pride, authenticity, and the future of media creation, including new signals like shows that explicitly declare “This show is made by humans.” Through stories, laughter, and a little obsession over color, light, and sound, the conversation becomes a meditation on what it means to create with care in an era where the easy default is automation.Apple TV's New Logo and Mnemonic [Web]Variety Interview with Finneas [Web]This show was made by humans.  -----Modem Futura is a production of the Future of Being Human initiative at Arizona State University. Be sure to subscribe on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you listen to your favorite shows. To learn more about the Future of Being Human initiative and all of our other projects visit - https://futureofbeinghuman.asu.eduSubscribe to our YouTube Channel: @ModemFuturaFollow us on Instagram: @ModemFuturaHost Bios:Sean M. Leahy, PhD - ASU BioSean is an an internationally recognized technologist, futurist, and educator innovating humanistic approaches to emerging technology through a Futures Studies approach. He is a Foresight Catalyst for the Future of Being Human Initiative and Research Scientist for the School for the Future of Innovation in Society and Senior Global Futures Scholar with the Julie Ann Wrigley Global Futures Laboratory at Arizona State University.Andrew Maynard, PhD - ASU BioAndrew is a scientist, author, thought leader, and Professor of Advanced Technology Transitions in the ASU School for the Future of Innovation in Society. He is the founder of the ASU Future of Being Human initiative, Director of the ASU Risk Innovation Nexus, and was previously Associate Dean in the ASU College of Global Futures.-----

Sean and Andrew dive into whether AI can genuinely aid in tackling climate change and other ecological crises. They discuss the significant energy and resource demands of AI technologies, highlighting the paradox of being part of the solution while potentially deepening the crisis. The conversation touches on real-world AI applications in scientific research and the importance of integrating human behavior into AI models. They also explore AI's potential as a facilitator for global cooperation and the ethical challenges related to reliance on technology for sustainability.

Dive into the intriguing world of the metaverse where physical and digital realities blend. Explore the fascinating concept of a 'metaverse stack' that layers augmented and virtual experiences. Discover how AI generates infinite worlds and how our perceptions of reality might shift. The discussion raises critical points on digital sustainability and ownership in virtual spaces, pondering whether companies will dominate this new frontier. Join in on the debate about how education and personal permissions could evolve in this ever-expanding digital landscape.

Wearing Apple Vision Pro headsets, the hosts explore the exciting realm of spatial computing. They break down the differences between spatial computing, VR, and AR, while detailing how the headset's sensors map the physical world. From enhancing productivity with virtual workspaces to immersive video experiences, they highlight practical applications. They also discuss comfort, motion sickness, and the tech's accessibility benefits. Imagining a future of shared digital spaces for remote collaboration, they emphasize critical consumer choices in this evolving landscape.

This Halloween special dives into eerie tech futures with supernatural twists. Imagine a haunted algorithm resurrecting old social media posts—sentimental glitch or creepy harassment? What if smart mirrors could reveal alternate versions of yourself? The duo explores the creepy concept of neural interfaces that could trap you in nightmares. Plus, they ponder the implications of AI-driven digital afterlives—therapeutic or invasive? Get ready for a blend of humor and spine-chilling speculation, perfect for both tech lovers and Halloween fans!

Dive into the fascinating world of AI as the hosts discuss a global survey revealing widespread public concern more than excitement. Discover why Americans lead the anxiety chart, contrasting trust levels in AI regulation between the EU and the U.S. Higher education's pivotal role is highlighted, with calls for transparency and experimentation to build trust. The conversation playfully shifts to Futures Improv, tackling imaginative scenarios about memory economies and digital preservation. It's a mix of critical analysis and creative fun!

Exploring the intersection of AI and retail, the hosts discuss Walmart's partnership with ChatGPT and how it could redefine online shopping. They dive into the implications of AI-driven economics versus traditional profit models, questioning whether we’re stuck in an 'AI bubble.' Reflecting on themes from Andrew's new book, they ponder how to engage with AI while maintaining our humanity. The conversation touches on synthetic media fatigue, the role of values in AI, and even whimsical futures where subscription-based immortality exists. Equal parts insightful and entertaining!

Celebrate a year of insightful dialogue on themes like AI, robots, and space futures! The hosts recap their journey, emphasizing community over transactions. Dive into discussions on liquid media and the tension between AI tools and human connection. Humor shines in a playful 'Futures Improv' with scenarios like AI pets outsmarting real pets and autonomous cars demanding meditation. They also highlight the implications of AI in creative work and tease exciting upcoming tech topics. Join the conversation!