In assessing the impact of social media, it is crucial to consider the incentives driving behavior. The traditional simplistic view of whether something is good or bad is inadequate in a complex AI-driven world. Social media, while offering benefits like economic opportunities for creators and connections for cancer survivors and long-lost lovers, also raises concerns. The key lies in examining the incentives guiding these platforms. Social media incentives can lead to addiction, outrage, polarization, narcissism, validation-seeking behavior, and a breakdown of truth and democracy. These negative consequences are directly tied to where the incentives in social media direct users' attention. As attention shapes humanity's choices, the new basis of attention on social media has significant influence on society.
Trevor is joined by Tristan Harris, a tech ethicist and entrepreneur who is probably best known as "the guy from 'The Social Dilemma' documentary” and who has dedicated himself and his company to aligning technology with humanity’s best interests. Tristan debunks the myth of his Burning Man epiphany and unpacks both the promises and the perils that lie ahead with AI.
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