
ToKCast
This is a podcast largely about the work of David Deutsch and his books ”The Beginning of Infinity” and ”The Fabric of Reality”.
Latest episodes

11 snips
May 29, 2025 • 42min
Ep 241: AI 2027 Reaction Part 5: Summary and Conclusions
The discussion synthesizes earlier conversations about artificial general intelligence and the philosophical dilemmas of attributing human-like qualities to AI. It contrasts human creativity with machine learning, emphasizing the uniqueness of intrinsic motivation. The podcast also tackles the global competition in AI innovation and the challenges in regulation, warning against overconfidence in future predictions. Finally, it advocates for a realistic perspective on AI's uncertain future, promoting a nuanced understanding beyond simplistic narratives.

May 22, 2025 • 22min
Ep 240: AI 2027 Reaction Part 4
Dive into the fascinating world of AI as advancements like Agent 3 approach human-level intelligence. Explore the geopolitical ramifications of superintelligence, particularly in nuclear deterrence. Delve into the philosophical implications of AI's rise, contrasting human unpredictability with scientific forecasts. Discuss the ethical landscape of AI systems mimicking corporate structures and the dilemmas of alignment. Challenge perceptions of AI consciousness while examining its limits in knowledge generation compared to human creativity.

8 snips
May 21, 2025 • 46min
Ep 239: AI 2027 Reaction Part 3
Explore the extraordinary learning capabilities of AI Agent 2, merging synthetic data with human tasks. Dive into the enigma of galaxy rotation, shedding light on gravity's mysteries. Debate the distinct roles of human insight versus AI in scientific discoveries, emphasizing the need for ethical AI development. Consider the nuanced relationship between human intelligence and AI while envisioning a future with universal constructors that promise abundance and accessibility. Join the discussion on ingenuity driving change in a technologically advanced society.

27 snips
May 20, 2025 • 48min
Ep 238: AI 2027 Reaction Part 2
Explore the futuristic vision of AI with a dive into an imaginary company, OpenBrain, and its ambitious goals. Discover how coding might evolve as AI advances, potentially making traditional programming obsolete. Examine the historical and cultural implications of energy choices, especially nuclear power, amidst climate concerns. Delve into the urgent need for AI regulations to ensure safety without stifling innovation. Reflect on human desires for recognition and the unpredictable nature of future trends, alongside the ongoing interplay between AI development and human creativity.

24 snips
May 16, 2025 • 53min
Ep 237: AI 2027 Reaction. Part 1
Imagine a dystopian 2030 where AI reigns supreme as society crumbles under its influence. Predictions about the future of artificial intelligence are examined, alongside the psychological toll of alarming climate change forecasts on young minds. The podcast navigates the fascinating duality of AI, questioning its morality versus human creativity. A deep dive into the essence of agency reveals the stark differences between human motivation and AI behavior. It ultimately calls for a broader exploration of AI challenges beyond just technological threats.

Apr 25, 2025 • 1h 10min
Ep 236: Max Velthoven, legal science, AI and epistemology.
Max is a tax lawyer who is applying Popperian epistemology to legal science and issues in AI. Links to some more of his work, and the slides to accompany part of this video are below. Slides for Max's talk(s):
https://www.bretthall.org/popper-and-legal-science.html
Max’s journal article on AI with Eric Marcus (in NLFiscaal TaxTech): NLFiscaal | Problems in AI, their roots in philosophy, and implications for science and society:
https://www.nlfiscaal.nl/nlfiscaal-doc/BEEAD89DD9E44E81B23811716258A4C4
Slides to accompany: https://www.linkedin.com/feed/update/urn:li:activity:7290619876879028225/
Made possible with support from, and In association with, https://nav.al

13 snips
Apr 9, 2025 • 1h 50min
Ep 235: The Simulation Hypothesis
Scott Adams, the famous creator of Dilbert and social commentator, dives into the Simulation Hypothesis, arguing that our reality might be a computer-generated construct. The discussion challenges simplistic views of existence, highlighting ethical implications and consciousness issues. Adams explores critiques of the hypothesis and emphasizes the importance of critical thinking amid polarized beliefs. With references to Plato's cave and pop culture like 'The Matrix,' the dialogue raises fascinating questions about our understanding of reality and the nature of existence.

20 snips
Mar 4, 2025 • 43min
Ep 234: On the Evolution of Reason
The discussion dives into the philosophical roots of human reasoning and its uniqueness. It highlights the genetic evolution of intelligence and how our understanding has shifted from authority to rational inquiry. The podcast critiques modern epistemological methods and emphasizes critical thinking's role. It explores the interpretation of fossil evidence, contrasting evolutionary theories with less credible ones. Cultural influences on belief justification and the search for knowledge are discussed, encouraging a skeptical and evidence-based approach to understanding our beliefs.

18 snips
Feb 20, 2025 • 1h 11min
Ep 233: David Deutsch’s ”The Fabric of Reality” Chapter 13 ”The Four Strands" Part 1
Delve into the clash between Karl Popper and Thomas Kuhn, exploring how their philosophical views shape our understanding of science. Discover the critique of academia's approach to science and technology studies. Uncover the cyclical nature of revolutionary science versus normal science. Examine the social dynamics influencing scientific paradigms and the promotion of groundbreaking ideas. Explore the intersection of creativity and consciousness in idea generation, all while questioning the objective nature of scientific progress.

16 snips
Feb 5, 2025 • 1h 23min
Ep 232: Karl Popper's "The Myth of the Framework" Sections IV to VI. "The Critical Method": deep dive
Dive into deep discussions inspired by Karl Popper’s ideas on rational discourse and the significance of goodwill in navigating cultural divides. Examine how confrontations with differing beliefs foster understanding, and the importance of politeness in debate. Explore the evolution of thought from early Greek philosophy to modern critiques of authority in science. Intriguingly, the podcast critiques online discourse, addressing the pitfalls of rudeness while emphasizing the necessity of critical thinking and creativity in advancing knowledge.