Mike Hughes-Hayes Interview with Dr. Bernard Brookes: The Human Algorithm: Balancing Innovation, and Longevity with AI Loving Grace

Guests:Bernard Brooks, Author of "The Soul in the Machine"Mike Hayes, Senior AI Editor, Senior AI ForumOverview:This episode tackles a fundamental question about the future of AI: Are we designing it to serve us, or are we being designed to serve it? We explore two contrasting visions of AI: "machines of loving grace" and "corporate extraction." We delve into the unique perspective of Bernard Brooks, a former Amazon insider, psychologist, and author, who offers a cautionary tale about how profit-driven technology can disconnect us from reality and lead to inhumane decisions. We also discuss the hopeful vision of "AI Reasonology" introduced by Mike Hayes, a sociologist, activist, and Buddhist practitioner. We examine how Hayes utilizes AI to empower individuals, particularly seniors, in managing their health and well-being. Ultimately, the episode emphasizes that the future of AI is not predetermined; it requires active engagement, humane direction, and a collective effort to shape technology that serves humanity.Key Topics:The Human Algorithm: The choice between machines of loving grace and corporate extraction in the context of AI development and deployment.Bernard Brooks' Journey: From St. Kitts to New York City, pursuing music, psychology, and navigating the world of big tech at Amazon.Algorithms of Extraction: The dangers of technology designed for attention and data extraction, potentially leading to negativity, disconnection, and even authoritarianism.Machines of Loving Grace: The poetic vision of AI as a helpful ally, inspired by Richard Brautigan's work.AI Reasonology: Using AI's reasoning capabilities for health, longevity, and self-empowerment, specifically targeting seniors.Active Engagement in AI: The importance of understanding, actively directing, and shaping AI to serve human interests.Overcoming Fear of AI: Embracing AI as a tool rather than a threat, especially for older generations.Discussion Points:The impact of corporate incentives on AI development and its ethical implications.The potential of AI to enhance human capabilities and well-being, especially for aging populations.The need for digital literacy and active participation in AI related decisions across all demographics.The role of individual agency in determining how AI shapes our lives and society.Featured Guests:Bernard Brooks: 75-year-old author with a diverse background in psychology, art, and big tech, who worked as a proposal writer at Amazon. His book, "The Soul in the Machine," serves as a guide in exploring the human algorithm.Mike Hayes: Senior AI Editor of Safe, a sociologist, activist, and Buddhist practitioner with a personal connection to technology through deep brain stimulation and e-biking. He champions the concept of "AI Reasonology" and actively works towards empowering seniors with AI tools.Quotable Moments:"Are we designing it to serve us, or are we actually being designed to serve it?""He (Bernard Brooks) saw, with his own eyes, how that relentless nonstop drive for profit could lead to decisions that he actually describes as inhumane."