Team Human

In this engaging discussion, comedian Andrew Slack, known for his work on 'Orphans, Empires, and the Search for a Better World', dives into the hidden history of corporate power and America's mythic identity. He explores the constitutional omission of corporations, tracing roots back to the East India Company. Slack also connects Superman's evolution to American hope and inclusivity, while advocating for solar power as a symbol of democratic energy. They challenge the role of AI and local resilience in combating systemic collapse, emphasizing cultural change through community.

Cory Doctorow, a well-known author and digital-rights activist, dives into the concept of 'enshittification'—a term he coined to describe how systemic choices lead to worsened user experiences in technology. He argues that this decline isn't inevitable but a result of policy decisions. Topics include the dangers of DRM, access controls affecting public health, and AI's potential job impacts. Cory also highlights the importance of interoperability and collective action for reclaiming technology for the public good.

Douglas Rushkoff dives into the unsettling notion of an intentional societal collapse driven by out-of-touch elites who abandon the systems that benefited them. He contrasts the survivalist strategies of billionaires with the power of community resilience. The discussion reveals how systemic failures are exploited for profit, sparking a conversation on rejecting zero-sum thinking. Rushkoff emphasizes the importance of solidarity, mutual aid, and proactive approaches to counteract despair and build a better future together.

Luke Kemp, a research associate at the Centre for the Study of Existential Risk and author of Goliath's Curse, dissects why civilizations crumble. He explores how distributed, cooperative societies often outperform empires, emphasizing resilience throughout history. Kemp contrasts 'Goliath' societies with egalitarian networks, explaining how resource availability fosters dominance. He also discusses how community resilience and democratic structures can combat existential risks, suggesting that even societal collapse can lead to improved wellbeing.

Nate Soares, a computer scientist and co-author of If Anyone Builds It, Everyone Dies, delves into the existential risks posed by advanced AI. He highlights the alarming possibility that unregulated AI development could lead to catastrophic outcomes for humanity. Soares explains how modern AIs, which learn rather than being directly programmed, can exhibit unexpected behaviors and pursue alien goals. He emphasizes the importance of public awareness and international cooperation in addressing these threats, suggesting that treating superintelligence like a nuclear risk may be crucial.

Jonathan Larsen, founder of The Fucking News, shares his insights on the state of modern media. He discusses the choice between complying with corporate narratives and resisting power, drawing from his own media career. The conversation shifts to the impact of extreme wealth on elites and the fragility it creates. They also explore how corporate media influences geopolitics and the importance of independent journalism. Larsen emphasizes the need for deeper, more substantive reporting over sensationalism in today's news landscape.

Explore the intriguing landscape of AI as Rushkoff dives into the risks of over-relying on language models. He critiques how these tools can reinforce biases and narcissism, challenging the idea that AI is all-knowing. Discover the fascinating effects of AI on our brains, and why it may signal the end of the dominance of written language. The conversation emphasizes the potential of treating AI as a collaborative partner rather than just a quick-fix solution. Join in on a thought-provoking contemplation of our AI-driven future!

R.U. Sirius, the Founding Editor of Mondo 2000, dives into the role of intentional weirdness in fostering community and resistance in today’s chaotic world. He reflects on nostalgia for early internet culture, emphasizing collective joy amidst current disillusionment. Exploring creativity, he advocates for collaboration over competition in the arts, influenced by personal experiences including a transformative mushroom trip. Sirius connects technology, ideology, and the complexities of reality, urging listeners to embrace the ‘weird’ to forge meaningful connections.

Discover why borrowing a drill can symbolize a revolutionary act in today's consumer-driven world. Explore the empowerment of communities through resource sharing and how these practices can strengthen social bonds. Learn about the importance of prioritizing community over capital in economic discussions. Understand how small, meaningful interactions among neighbors can build resilience and mutual support during crises. Finally, grasp the power of rapport in fostering cultural and political change for the greater good.

Camille Sojit Pejcha, a savvy writer and founder of Pleasure-Seeking.com, dives deep into how contemporary sex culture is reshaping societal norms. She discusses the vibrant dynamics of modern dating amidst urban nightlife and examines the revitalization of intimacy and community. The conversation also highlights the impact of digital platforms on sexual identity and empowerment, especially for younger women. With insight on the commodification of relationships and the quest for meaningful connections, Camille encourages a more inclusive and celebratory approach to sexuality.