80,000 Hours Podcast

Benjamin Hilton, an expert author focused on AI safety, dives into the pressing issue of preventing AI-related catastrophes. He discusses the dual nature of AI technology, highlighting its potential to solve global challenges while posing existential risks. The conversation navigates the dangers of AI misalignment and the urgent need for safety measures. Hilton emphasizes the unpredictability of advances in AI, advocating for immediate research efforts and career pathways in this vital field, aiming to ensure beneficial integration into society.

Sharon Hewitt Rawlette, a philosopher and author, explores the concept of intrinsic value, arguing that pleasure and pain are the core of moral understanding. She reawakens hedonism, emphasizing that positive feelings are the only true intrinsic goods. The discussion delves into the complexities of moral truth, the historical evolution of hedonism, and the link between suffering and personal growth. Rawlette also tackles the philosophical implications of decision-making in the context of pleasure, authenticity, and the allure of simulated happiness versus real experiences.

Andreas Mogensen, a Senior Research Fellow at Oxford's Global Priorities Institute, explores the intersection of effective altruism and various ethical theories. He argues that you don't have to be a utilitarian to embrace effective altruism, detailing his lean towards deontological ethics. The discussion highlights the importance of a 'principle of beneficence' in addressing preventable suffering, and dives into the ethical complexities of moral obligations to future generations versus immediate needs. Mogensen's insights invite listeners to reevaluate their moral reasoning in altruism.

Join Will MacAskill, an Oxford philosopher and co-founder of the effective altruism movement, as he explores the importance of our ethical responsibilities towards future generations. He argues that longtermism—a focus on the far future—is vital for addressing existential risks like pandemics and AI. MacAskill dives into how our decisions today can have immense impacts on tomorrow's humanity, urging listeners to engage in long-term thinking about climate change, energy transition, and the moral implications of advanced technology.

Samuel Charap, a senior political scientist at the RAND Corporation and co-author of a book on the Ukraine crisis, shares key insights on the ongoing conflict in Ukraine. He discusses Russia's territorial control and military strategies amid difficulties, while Ukraine prepares for a counteroffensive. Charap also reflects on evolving perceptions of Putin's motivations, the impact of Western sanctions on Russia, and the complexities of peace negotiations. This engaging conversation sheds light on the war's global ramifications and the urgent need for diplomatic solutions.

In a thought-provoking discussion, Ian Morris, a best-selling historian and Willard Professor of Classics at Stanford, delves into how human values have changed over thousands of years. He argues that societal organization evolves toward energy efficiency, shaping everything from gender roles to governance. Morris also explores the impact of geography on historical narratives, the relationship between war and development, and the tight bonds between energy extraction and moral frameworks. This captivating journey through macrohistory reveals how past trends inform our future.

Max Tegmark, a physicist at MIT and president of the Future of Life Institute, discusses his pivotal journey into AI research after a transformative New Year's resolution. He highlights the dual nature of AI—its potential to improve lives versus the ethical risks it poses, including misinformation and societal division. Tegmark emphasizes the urgent need for responsible AI governance, echoing historical lessons from industries like tobacco. Additionally, he advocates for empowering individuals through informed decision-making amid today's complex technological landscape.

In this discussion, Nova DasSarma, a lead systems architect at Anthropic, delves into the pressing need for information security in AI development. She outlines the challenges AI companies face in protecting their intellectual property, especially against cyber threats like corporate espionage and data breaches. Nova emphasizes the balance between usability and security while revealing insights from the recent NVIDIA breach. Her thoughts on the evolving landscape of cybersecurity and the necessity of robust protective measures provide a captivating perspective for anyone interested in AI and tech security.

Lewis Dartnell, a science communicator and author of 'The Knowledge', discusses strategies for humanity to recover in a post-apocalyptic world. He emphasizes starting small and utilizing appropriate technologies for survival, urging focus on simpler, sustainable solutions. Dartnell also explores the importance of preserving essential knowledge for future generations and the role of older technologies in rebuilding civilization. With insights from astrobiology, he suggests innovative survival strategies and the economic principles vital for recovery in catastrophic scenarios.

Join Will MacAskill, a philosopher from the University of Oxford and a key figure in effective altruism, as he shares insights from his upcoming book, 'What We Owe The Future.' He navigates the delicate balance between frugality and ambition in nonprofit work, especially when funding surges. Will discusses the mental health challenges and risks of burnout amidst increased responsibilities. The conversation highlights the importance of recognizing unsung heroes in activism and the need for moral considerations in philanthropy and long-term thinking.