By Sean Leahy, Andrew Maynard
5
1515 ratings
The podcast currently has 10 episodes available.
Sean and Andrew explore the challenges and limitations of AI reasoning, especially in large language models (LLMs). They discuss recent Apple research questioning LLMs' true reasoning abilities, emphasizing that these models rely heavily on pattern recognition rather than genuine understanding. Their conversation addresses the hype around AI, its inherent fragility, and the importance of fostering AI literacy to avoid misplaced trust. They examine AI's potential as a writing partner, the critical need for accuracy in sensitive areas like healthcare and education, and the ethical implications of AI's role in digital communication, advocating for a nuanced, responsible approach to AI development.
Links:
Chapters
00:00 Introduction to AI Reasoning Challenges
04:46 Exploring AI's Limitations in Reasoning
12:36 The Fragility of AI Models
20:48 The Hype vs. Reality of AI Capabilities
25:56 AI Literacy and Trust Issues
28:58 Future Directions for AI Development
30:48 The Future of AI as a Writing Partner
33:39 Trust and Literacy in AI Applications
39:13 Critical Applications and the Need for Accuracy
43:46 Manipulation in Digital Communication
51:50 The Ethics of AI in High-Stakes Interactions
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Modem Futura is a production of the Future of Being Human initiative at Arizona State University. Be sure to subscribe on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you listen to your favorite shows. To learn more about the Future of Being Human initiative and all of our other projects visit - https://futureofbeinghuman.asu.edu
Host Bios:
Sean M. Leahy, PhD - ASU Bio
Sean is an an internationally recognized technologist, futurist, and educator innovating humanistic approaches to emerging technology through a Futures Studies approach. He is a Foresight Catalyst for the Future of Being Human Initiative and Research Scientist for the School for the Future of Innovation in Society and Senior Global Futures Scholar with the Julie Ann Wrigley Global Futures Laboratory at Arizona State University.
Andrew Maynard, PhD - ASU Bio
Andrew is a scientist, author, thought leader, and Professor of Advanced Technology Transitions in the ASU School for the Future of Innovation in Society. He is the founder of the ASU Future of Being Human initiative, Director of the ASU Risk Innovation Nexus, and was previously Associate Dean in the ASU College of Global Futures.
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Are we living a simulation? We get 'real' with the simulation hypothesis, exploring its implications on reality, consciousness, and ethics. The conversation with Riz covers various themes including the nature of simulations, the multiverse, the Mandela effect, quantum physics, and the philosophical and religious implications of living in a simulated reality. The conversation also touches on the ethical considerations surrounding AI and the rights of simulated beings, ultimately questioning the significance of our existence within a potential simulation.
Links:
Rizwan Virk
@rizstanford
Chapters
00:00 The Allure of Video Games
08:45 Introduction to the Simulation Hypothesis
10:43 Understanding the Simulation Hypothesis
17:39 Philosophical Implications of Simulation
24:12 Skepticism and Belief in Simulation
32:28 Why Do We Play Games?
33:23 Exploring the Simulation Hypothesis
36:02 The Multiverse and Alternate Timelines
39:52 The Mandela Effect and Memory
42:38 Quantum Physics and Simulation Theory
53:05 Ethics in a Simulated Reality
01:04:51 Religious Perspectives on Simulation Theory
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Modem Futura is a production of the Future of Being Human initiative at Arizona State University. Be sure to subscribe on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you listen to your favorite shows. To learn more about the Future of Being Human initiative and all of our other projects visit - https://futureofbeinghuman.asu.edu
Host Bios:
Sean M. Leahy, PhD - ASU Bio
Sean is an an internationally recognized technologist, futurist, and educator innovating humanistic approaches to emerging technology through a Futures Studies approach. He is a Foresight Catalyst for the Future of Being Human Initiative and Research Scientist for the School for the Future of Innovation in Society and Senior Global Futures Scholar with the Julie Ann Wrigley Global Futures Laboratory at Arizona State University.
Andrew Maynard, PhD - ASU Bio
Andrew is a scientist, author, thought leader, and Professor of Advanced Technology Transitions in the ASU School for the Future of Innovation in Society. He is the founder of the ASU Future of Being Human initiative, Director of the ASU Risk Innovation Nexus, and was previously Associate Dean in the ASU College of Global Futures.
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In this conversation, Sean and Andrew explore the future of transportation, particularly focusing on driverless cars and the implications of autonomous vehicles. They discuss the current state of technology, the various levels of automation, and the societal changes that may arise from widespread adoption of self-driving cars. The conversation also touches on personal experiences with Waymo, the challenges of public perception, and the potential benefits for individuals with disabilities. In this conversation, the hosts explore the experience of riding in an autonomous vehicle, specifically a Waymo, discussing its driving behavior, safety features, and the implications of self-driving technology. They touch on the normalization of autonomous driving, the data surrounding safety, and the ethical dilemmas posed by such technology, including the famous trolley problem. The discussion highlights the advancements in autonomous driving while also questioning the responsibilities and societal impacts of these technologies.
See the Full Waymo Ride [YouTube]
Special Acknowledgment
We'd like to acknowledge the partial funding support provided by the US Department of Transportation-sponsored Travel Behavior and Demand National University Transportation Center led by The University of Texas at Austin. The Center, of which Arizona State University is a consortium member, has helped make this podcast episode, and the research we're discussing, possible
Chapters
00:00 Envisioning the Future of Transportation
03:00 The Reality of Driverless Cars
11:59 Understanding Levels of Automation
23:55 The Road Ahead for Autonomous Vehicles
31:13 Navigating Autonomous Driving: A New Experience
39:17 The Waymo Experience: First Impressions and Observations
50:41 Safety in Autonomous Vehicles: Analyzing the Data
59:57 Ethical Dilemmas in Autonomous Driving: The Trolley Problem
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Modem Futura is a production of the Future of Being Human initiative at Arizona State University. Be sure to subscribe on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you listen to your favorite shows. To learn more about the Future of Being Human initiative and all of our other projects visit - https://futureofbeinghuman.asu.edu
Host Bios:
Sean M. Leahy, PhD - ASU Bio
Sean is an an internationally recognized technologist, futurist, and educator innovating humanistic approaches to emerging technology through a Futures Studies approach. He is a Foresight Catalyst for the Future of Being Human Initiative and Research Scientist for the School for the Future of Innovation in Society and Senior Global Futures Scholar with the Julie Ann Wrigley Global Futures Laboratory at Arizona State University.
Andrew Maynard, PhD - ASU Bio
Andrew is a scientist, author, thought leader, and Professor of Advanced Technology Transitions in the ASU School for the Future of Innovation in Society. He is the founder of the ASU Future of Being Human initiative, Director of the ASU Risk Innovation Nexus, and was previously Associate Dean in the ASU College of Global Futures.
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Hosts Sean and Andrew reflect on the challenges of defining human identity in the context of advancing technology and the responsibilities of society in managing these innovations. In this conversation, our hosts explore the evolving landscape of AI, particularly focusing on OpenAI's transition to a for-profit model. They discuss the ethical implications of AI development, the ecological impact of technological changes, and the societal responsibilities that come with innovation. The conversation emphasizes the need for transparency, public engagement, and a balanced approach to harnessing technology for the greater good, while also addressing the potential risks and unintended consequences of unchecked advancements.
Chapters
00:00 The Origins of AI: Turing's Question
10:01 The Nature of Thought: Machines vs. Humans
20:10 The Ethical Implications of AI Development
28:10 The Future of Consciousness and Identity
29:02 The Superhero Archetype and Change
30:54 The Evolution of OpenAI
32:19 Ethics and Responsibility in AI Development
35:38 Technological Trade-offs and Ecological Changes
38:56 The Mythic Status of Technology
41:43 Trusting For-Profit Entities with AI
43:41 Reclaiming Research for Public Good
46:28 Balancing Innovation and Ethical Oversight
49:40 The Role of Society in AI Development
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Modem Futura is a production of the Future of Being Human initiative at Arizona State University. Be sure to subscribe on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you listen to your favorite shows. To learn more about the Future of Being Human initiative and all of our other projects visit - https://futureofbeinghuman.asu.edu
Host Bios:
Sean M. Leahy, PhD - ASU Bio
Sean is an an internationally recognized technologist, futurist, and educator innovating humanistic approaches to emerging technology through a Futures Studies approach. He is a Foresight Catalyst for the Future of Being Human Initiative and Research Scientist for the School for the Future of Innovation in Society and Senior Global Futures Scholar with the Julie Ann Wrigley Global Futures Laboratory at Arizona State University.
Andrew Maynard, PhD - ASU Bio
Andrew is a scientist, author, thought leader, and Professor of Advanced Technology Transitions in the ASU School for the Future of Innovation in Society. He is the founder of the ASU Future of Being Human initiative, Director of the ASU Risk Innovation Nexus, and was previously Associate Dean in the ASU College of Global Futures.
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In this Halloween special Sean and Andrew are joined by Ed Finn, the founding director of the Center for Science and the Imagination. The conversation explores the historical impact of Orson Welles' radio adaptation of H.G. Wells' War of the Worlds, the role of technology in storytelling, and the cultural significance of Halloween. They discuss how speculative fiction can inspire collective imagination for better futures, while also reflecting on societal fears and anxieties. In this engaging conversation, the speakers explore themes of colonial anxieties, the power dynamic, and the unsettling nature of narratives in literature and media. They discuss the importance of human connection in the face of catastrophe, the nature of scary movies, and the community aspects of Halloween traditions.
Links:
Chapters
00:00 Introduction to the Halloween Special
03:17 The Impact of War of the Worlds
11:59 Exploring the Center for Science and Imagination
18:54 The Role of Technology in Storytelling
26:59 Halloween: A Cultural Reflection
30:01 Spectacle and Unsettling Narratives
32:33 Human Connection in Catastrophe
36:35 The Nature of Scary Movies
45:14 Future of Sci-Fi and Upcoming Events
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Modem Futura is a production of the Future of Being Human initiative at Arizona State University. Be sure to subscribe on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you listen to your favorite shows. To learn more about the Future of Being Human initiative and all of our other projects visit - https://futureofbeinghuman.asu.edu
Host Bios:
Sean M. Leahy, PhD - ASU Bio
Sean is an an internationally recognized technologist, futurist, and educator innovating humanistic approaches to emerging technology through a Futures Studies approach. He is a Foresight Catalyst for the Future of Being Human Initiative and Research Scientist for the School for the Future of Innovation in Society and Senior Global Futures Scholar with the Julie Ann Wrigley Global Futures Laboratory at Arizona State University.
Andrew Maynard, PhD - ASU Bio
Andrew is a scientist, author, thought leader, and Professor of Advanced Technology Transitions in the ASU School for the Future of Innovation in Society. He is the founder of the ASU Future of Being Human initiative, Director of the ASU Risk Innovation Nexus, and was previously Associate Dean in the ASU College of Global Futures.
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In this episode, hosts Sean and Andrew jump right into the complex themes surrounding biohacking, data ownership, and the ethical implications of genetic data. They explore the historical context of data ownership, the evolution of biohacking, and the responsibilities that come with technological advancements. The conversation also highlights the case of 23andMe, discussing the potential risks and benefits of personal data collection and the need for regulations to protect individuals. Ultimately, they emphasize the importance of balancing innovation with ethical considerations as we navigate the future of technology and humanity.
Links:
Key conversational takeaways
Chapters
00:00 Exploring the Future of Humanity
01:09 The Ownership of Data and Identity
04:27 Understanding Biohacking: Definitions and Implications
10:22 The Balance of Innovation and Responsibility
13:40 The Case of 23andMe: Data Privacy and Ethics
20:26 The Future of Personal Data and Its Consequences
26:07 Synthetic Data: Opportunities and Ethical Considerations
32:55 Biohacking: The Intersection of Technology and Humanity
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Modem Futura is a production of the Future of Being Human initiative at Arizona State University. Be sure to subscribe on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you listen to your favorite shows. To learn more about the Future of Being Human initiative and all of our other projects visit - https://futureofbeinghuman.asu.edu
Host Bios:
Sean M. Leahy, PhD - ASU Bio
Sean is an an internationally recognized technologist, futurist, and educator innovating humanistic approaches to emerging technology through a Futures Studies approach. He is a Foresight Catalyst for the Future of Being Human Initiative and Research Scientist for the School for the Future of Innovation in Society and Senior Global Futures Scholar with the Julie Ann Wrigley Global Futures Laboratory at Arizona State University.
Andrew Maynard, PhD - ASU Bio
Andrew is a scientist, author, thought leader, and Professor of Advanced Technology Transitions in the ASU School for the Future of Innovation in Society. He is the founder of the ASU Future of Being Human initiative, Director of the ASU Risk Innovation Nexus, and was previously Associate Dean in the ASU College of Global Futures.
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Links
Main talking points and takeaways
Chapters
00:00 Exploring AI in Podcasting
02:59 The Evolution of Notebook LM
06:00 The Impact of AI on Perception
09:11 The Role of AI in Content Creation
11:58 The Future of AI and Spatial Intelligence
15:06 The Next Generation of AI Models
17:54 The Promise of AI in Virtual Worlds
21:03 The Intersection of AI and Robotics
24:12 Concluding Thoughts on AI's Future
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Modem Futura is a production of the Future of Being Human initiative at Arizona State University. Be sure to subscribe on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you listen to your favorite shows. To learn more about the Future of Being Human initiative and all of our other projects visit - https://futureofbeinghuman.asu.edu
Host Bios:
Sean M. Leahy, PhD - ASU Bio
Sean is an an internationally recognized technologist, futurist, and educator innovating humanistic approaches to emerging technology through a Futures Studies approach. He is a Foresight Catalyst for the Future of Being Human Initiative and Research Scientist for the School for the Future of Innovation in Society and Senior Global Futures Scholar with the Julie Ann Wrigley Global Futures Laboratory at Arizona State University.
Andrew Maynard, PhD - ASU Bio
Andrew is a scientist, author, thought leader, and Professor of Advanced Technology Transitions in the ASU School for the Future of Innovation in Society. He is the founder of the ASU Future of Being Human initiative, Director of the ASU Risk Innovation Nexus, and was previously Associate Dean in the ASU College of Global Futures.
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In this episode of Modem Futura, hosts Andrew and Sean get into the complexities of the future of being human, exploring the role of technology, innovation, and individual perspectives in shaping our collective futures. They discuss the importance of curiosity, creativity, and inclusivity in futures studies, while also reflecting on the historical context provided by figures like H.G. Wells. The conversation emphasizes the need for a balanced approach to navigating technological advancements and the responsibility of individuals in co-creating the future.
Links:
Key Takeaways
Chapters (if you want to skip around)
00:00 The Rise and Fall of AI Tools
03:03 Exploring the Future of Being Human
05:52 The Purpose of Future Studies
09:04 Individual vs. Collective Futures
11:54 Navigating Technological Advancements
15:13 The Role of Innovation in Humanity
17:55 Guiding Principles for Future Thinking
20:51 Catalytic Serendipity and Inclusivity
24:05 Curiosity and Creativity in Future Studies
27:13 The Fragility of Human Existence
29:58 H.G. Wells and the Science of Futures
32:46 The Evolution of Humanity
36:07 Conclusion and Future Directions
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Modem Futura is a production of the Future of Being Human initiative at Arizona State University. Be sure to subscribe on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you listen to your favorite shows. To learn more about the Future of Being Human initiative and all of our other projects visit - https://futureofbeinghuman.asu.edu
Host Bios:
Sean M. Leahy, PhD - ASU Bio
Sean is an an internationally recognized technologist, futurist, and educator innovating humanistic approaches to emerging technology through a Futures Studies approach. He is a Foresight Catalyst for the Future of Being Human Initiative and Research Scientist for the School for the Future of Innovation in Society and Senior Global Futures Scholar with the Julie Ann Wrigley Global Futures Laboratory at Arizona State University.
Andrew Maynard, PhD - ASU Bio
Andrew is a scientist, author, thought leader, and Professor of Advanced Technology Transitions in the ASU School for the Future of Innovation in Society. He is the founder of the ASU Future of Being Human initiative, Director of the ASU Risk Innovation Nexus, and was previously Associate Dean in the ASU College of Global Futures.
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In this pilot episode of Modem Futura, hosts Sean Leahy and Andrew Maynard explore the intersection of technology, society, and the human experience. They discuss the origins of the podcast, the significance of the Future of Being Human Initiative, and the importance of inclusive conversations about the future. The episode highlights personal journeys into futurism, the need for diverse voices in discussions about emerging technologies, and the wonder of scientific exploration. The hosts also tease future topics and themes for upcoming episodes, emphasizing the podcast's goal of inspiring curiosity and dialogue.
Key takeaways
The podcast aims to explore the intersection of technology and humanity.
Modems symbolize the translation of complex signals into understandable insights.
The Future of Being Human Initiative seeks to create inclusive conversations about the future.
Personal experiences shape our understanding of futurism and technology.
Everyone has valuable insights to contribute to discussions about the future.
Creating spaces for difficult conversations is essential in a polarized world.
Science and wonder can coexist in discussions about the future.
The podcast will cover a wide range of intriguing topics.
Engaging with diverse voices enriches the conversation about the future.
Sean and Andrew are excited to explore the unknown and challenge conventional thinking.
Chapters
00:00 Introduction to Modem Futura
01:53 The Concept of Modems and Futures
04:51 The Future of Being Human Initiative
08:41 Personal Journeys into Futurism
12:21 The Importance of Inclusive Conversations
16:24 Exploring the Intersection of Science and Wonder
19:05 Looking Ahead: Topics and Themes for Future Episodes
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Modem Futura is a production of the Future of Being Human initiative at Arizona State University. Be sure to subscribe on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you listen to your favorite shows. To learn more about the Future of Being Human initiative and all of our other projects visit - https://futureofbeinghuman.asu.edu
Host Bios:
Sean M. Leahy, PhD - ASU Bio
Sean is an an internationally recognized technologist, futurist, and educator innovating humanistic approaches to emerging technology through a Futures Studies approach. He is a Foresight Catalyst for the Future of Being Human Initiative and Research Scientist for the School for the Future of Innovation in Society and Senior Global Futures Scholar with the Julie Ann Wrigley Global Futures Laboratory at Arizona State University.
Andrew Maynard, PhD - ASU Bio
Andrew is a scientist, author, thought leader, and Professor of Advanced Technology Transitions in the ASU School for the Future of Innovation in Society. He is the founder of the ASU Future of Being Human initiative, Director of the ASU Risk Innovation Nexus, and was previously Associate Dean in the ASU College of Global Futures.
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Welcome to Modem Futura, where we journey into the future to explore the dynamic intersection of technology, society, and humanity. In this trailer, get a glimpse of how we dive into the innovations shaping our world and challenge the myths and narratives that define what it means to be human in a rapidly changing landscape. Tune in for an adventurous exploration of the ideas that will inspire new ways of thinking about tomorrow.
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Modem Futura is a production of the Future of Being Human initiative at Arizona State University. Be sure to subscribe on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you listen to your favorite shows. To learn more about the Future of Being Human initiative and all of our other projects visit - https://futureofbeinghuman.asu.edu
Host Bios:
Sean M. Leahy, PhD - ASU Bio
Sean is an an internationally recognized technologist, futurist, and educator innovating humanistic approaches to emerging technology through a Futures Studies approach. He is a Foresight Catalyst for the Future of Being Human Initiative and Research Scientist for the School for the Future of Innovation in Society and Senior Global Futures Scholar with the Julie Ann Wrigley Global Futures Laboratory at Arizona State University.
Andrew Maynard, PhD - ASU Bio
Andrew is a scientist, author, thought leader, and Professor of Advanced Technology Transitions in the ASU School for the Future of Innovation in Society. He is the founder of the ASU Future of Being Human initiative, Director of the ASU Risk Innovation Nexus, and was previously Associate Dean in the ASU College of Global Futures.
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The podcast currently has 10 episodes available.
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