unSILOed with Greg LaBlanc

In a riveting discussion, Gary Marcus, an Emeritus Professor of Psychology at NYU and AI expert, challenges the prevailing misconceptions of artificial intelligence. He highlights the 'gullibility gap' where people overestimate AI's capabilities and stresses the urgent need for regulatory frameworks akin to those in pharmacology. Marcus critiques current AI models, advocating for a balance between deep learning and traditional programming. He also delves into the societal impacts of generative AI, including copyright dilemmas and the necessity of critical thinking in education.

Azeem Azhar, founder of Exponential View and author of The Exponential Age, discusses how rapid technological advancements are transforming business, politics, and society. He highlights the importance of adapting to these changes through continuous learning and strategic knowledge. Azeem breaks down the implications of general-purpose technologies like AI and renewable energy. He also addresses challenges in data ownership and the potential of AI for social good, especially in underserved regions, advocating for equitable access to technological benefits.

In this discussion, economic philosopher Margaret Schabas inverts common misconceptions about economics. As a professor at the University of British Columbia and author of *A Philosopher's Economist*, she explores how economic thought evolved from natural philosophy through key figures like Hume and Smith. Topics include the interplay between human agency and economic behavior, the shift from divine order to individual agency, and the historical ties between economics and Darwinism, highlighting the complexities of human behavior in understanding economic patterns.

Scott Doorley, Creative Director at Stanford's d.school, and Carissa Carter, Academic Director and Adjunct Professor, delve into the evolving nature of design in a rapidly changing world. They discuss the ethical responsibilities of designers and the long-term impacts of their work. Key topics include embracing discomfort as a path to creativity, the transformative power of design thinking, and the importance of noticing unintended consequences. They also advocate for intentional design choices that foster innovation and address societal challenges.

In this discussion, Richard A. Muller, a UC Berkeley physics professor and author of 'Now: The Physics of Time', emphasizes the crucial link between physics and addressing global warming. He argues that scientific literacy is vital for policymakers to grasp critical concepts, particularly the realities of climate change and nuclear energy. Muller explores the misconceptions surrounding nuclear power, the challenges of carbon emissions, and innovative energy solutions, advocating for clearer communication to bridge the gap between science and public understanding.

Michael Spitzer, a music professor at the University of Liverpool and author of "The Musical Human," explores the essence of human musicality. He delves into the origins of music in nature and its evolution through cultural expression. The discussion highlights the transition from communal music-making to passive consumption, and how technology is reshaping musical composition. Spitzer examines the interplay of music, emotion, and community, questioning whether we are losing the deeper value of music in today's world.

Erik Angner, a professor of philosophy at Stockholm University and author of 'How Economics Can Save the World,' discusses the critical link between economics and addressing global challenges like pandemics and climate change. He highlights the need for economists to engage more deeply with societal issues and critiques the public's lack of economic understanding. Angner also explores the role of philosophy in integrating social sciences, emphasizing that a blend of empirical research and philosophical inquiry can lead to innovative solutions for modern problems.

David Robson, a former editor at New Scientist and author, dives into the complex relationship between intelligence and wisdom. He reveals that traditional IQ tests often fail to predict real-world success and emphasizes the role of critical thinking in education. Robson also discusses how mindset can enhance healing through the placebo effect, the balance between optimism and pessimism in personal growth, and the importance of diverse skills in teamwork, urging listeners to rethink how they measure intelligence and decision-making.

Josephine Quinn, a Professor of Ancient History at the University of Oxford and author, shares her insights on the evolution of civilization over 4,000 years. She unpacks how civilizations intertwined through war, trade, and cultural exchanges, challenging our modern perceptions. Discover how the Crusades influenced our current sugar habits and the significant impact of the Phoenicians on language and trade, shaping the very fabric of modern society. Quinn's discussion not only highlights historical complexities but also critiques the simplistic views of civilization.

Gregory Berns, a neuroscientist at Emory University and author, dives into the complexities of self-perception and social conformity. He explores the unique human storytelling instinct compared to animal communication and discusses his groundbreaking MRI research on dogs. The conversation touches on how our identities are shaped by sensory input and societal pressure, alongside the evolution of motivations from ancestral strategies to today's digital anxieties. Berns also shares insights from his farm life, highlighting the bonds formed with animals like cows.