

Mind Matters
Discovery Institute Center on Natural and Artificial Intelligence
On the Mind Matters podcast, Discovery Institute’s Walter Bradley Center for Natural and Artificial Intelligence considers the implications and misconceptions, the opportunities and limitations, and the applications and challenges presented by intelligent agents and their algorithms. Episode notes and archives available at mindmatters.ai/podcast.
Episodes
Mentioned books

Jul 27, 2023 • 28min
The Sound of Freedom: How Human Trafficking and Porn Compromises National Security
Robert J. Marks and Charlie Crockett discuss how the normalization of online pornography is connected with sex trafficking and abuse. In fact, the two industries are inextricably linked. They also discuss how military communications are affected by the widespread use of porn because of the high demand for spectrum (a limited resource). Additional Resources
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Jul 20, 2023 • 20min
The Sound of Freedom: Social Media and Human Trafficking
Robert J. Marks and Charlie Crockett continue their conversation on the sad reality of human trafficking. In this episode, they focus particularly on how social media has become a place where predators will search and highlight children’s vulnerabilities — which so many young people share online. Marks and Crockett encourage parents to develop relationships of trust with their children and Read More ›
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Jul 13, 2023 • 24min
The Sound of Freedom: Human Trafficking In your Own Back Yard
Robert Marks speaks on the difficult topic of human trafficking with his guest Charlie Crockett, who works with the anti-trafficking advocacy organization Unbound Now. Human trafficking is the fastest-growing criminal industry in the world and goes undetected all over the U.S. Marks and Crockett talk about the scope of the problem, common misconceptions about trafficking, and how to help victims in need. Read More ›
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Jul 6, 2023 • 32min
Neuroscience, the Mind, and Theism
Neurosurgeon Michael Egnor, known for his insights on the brain and the immaterial mind, joins anthropologist Dr. Joshua Farris, who delves into the philosophical and theological implications of consciousness. They engage in a fascinating exploration of Descartes' dualism and its ongoing relevance in modern thought. The pair also tackle the intricate relationship between faith and certainty, questioning how beliefs shape our understanding of existence. Their discussion blends neuroscience with profound philosophical inquiry, making for an enlightening exchange.

Jun 29, 2023 • 2h 24min
What is the Future of the Internet?
In the age of data harvesting and Big Tech monopolies, what will the Internet look like in a decade? In today’s episode, Robert J. Marks speaks with computer engineer Adam Goad about “Web 3.0,” decentralization, cryptocurrency, and the future of the blockchain. Additional Resources
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Jun 22, 2023 • 38min
Can Lawyer Robots Solve Complex Legal Cases?
A lawyer recently used ChatGPT in a court case, but it generated false citations. Can AI be trusted at all in the courtroom? Lawyer Richard Stevens explains how in legal cases, meaning, context, and nuance are essential, and can’t be “computed” by artificial intelligence. Additional Resources
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Jun 15, 2023 • 35min
AI Libel and Responsibility
What happens when ChatGPT doesn’t just generate false information but also slanderous and potentially harmful responses? And in legal matters, who is responsible for AI? Robert J. Marks and legal expert Richard W. Stevens discuss these topics and more in this week’s podcast episode. Additional Resources
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Jun 8, 2023 • 40min
AI and Intellectual Property
The question of copyright and “fair use” is a contentious debate in the age of AI. Is AI-generated art a kind of theft? What about artists’ rights? Attorney and Bradley Center Senior Fellow Richard Stevens discusses the legalities of copyright and the challenge of artificial intelligence in today’s increasingly complicated world. Additional Resources
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Jun 1, 2023 • 48min
Alzheimer’s, Medical Ethics, and Choosing Life
From preemptive assisted suicide to selective abortions, the medical field suffers a host of ethical dilemmas. In today’s podcast episode, memory-loss expert Stephen Post joins neurosurgeon Michael Egnor to discuss Alzheimer’s, bioethics, and the intrinsic dignity of human beings. Additional Resources
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May 25, 2023 • 31min
AI: Is it Good or Bad for Society?
Artificial intelligence already surrounds us and has made inroads into banking, accounting, and digital technology. It’s ubiquitous. In today’s episode, Robert J. Marks reminds us that AI is like fire: its benefits and value depend on how wisely (or foolishly) we use it. Additional Resources
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