Stargate AG-I episode artwork

EPISODE · Jan 28, 2025 · 1H 5M

Stargate AG-I

from Modem Futura · host Andrew Maynard, Sean Leahy

In this conversation, Sean Leahy and Andrew Maynard discuss the rapid developments in AI technology, particularly focusing on the newly announced Stargate AI initiative. They explore the implications of the inauguration week, the political landscape surrounding AI regulation, and the potential economic impacts of this massive investment in AI infrastructure. The discussion also touches on historical parallels, public perception, and the ambitious claims made during the press conference announcing the initiative. Andrew and Sean also explore the transformative potential of AI and mRNA vaccines in medicine, the ethical implications of tech companies' responsibilities, and the societal risks associated with unchecked technological advancement. They discuss the concept of 'enshitification,' where companies prioritize profit over user experience, and emphasize the need for responsible development and regulation in the tech industry. In this conversation, the hosts explore the implications of corporate power in the context of AI development, the merging of corporate and governmental roles, and the potential dystopian futures that may arise. They discuss the responsibilities of society in shaping AI's trajectory, the energy demands of AI infrastructure, and the gamble of sacrificing current quality of life for future benefits. The conversation emphasizes the importance of quality control in innovation and ends on a note of optimism, urging individuals to engage in discussions about the future of AI and its impact on human flourishing.Links: OpenAI's Stargate AnnouncementCory Doctrow's 'Enshittification' CNN's Coverage of Project Stargate  -----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.eduSubscribe to our YouTube Channel: @ModemFuturaFollow us on Instagram: @ModemFuturaHost Bios:Sean M. Leahy, PhD - ASU BioSean is an internationally recognized technologist, futurist, and educator innovating humanistic approaches to emerging technology through a Futures Studies approach. He is the Executive Director 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 BioAndrew 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.-----

As if 2025 couldn't go any faster... Sean and Andrew tackle the news announcement of the $500 BILLION dollar AI Infrastructure project (and new company) Stargate. Of course we take some fun with the name, but then dig into the implications of what 'development at all costs' might have for our futures. Raising difficult questions around balancing innovations and risks.

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Stargate AG-I

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This episode is 1 hour and 5 minutes long.

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This episode was published on January 28, 2025.

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In this conversation, Sean Leahy and Andrew Maynard discuss the rapid developments in AI technology, particularly focusing on the newly announced Stargate AI initiative. They explore the implications of the inauguration week, the political landscape...

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