Susan Schneider x Zoltan Istvan | The Global AI Race and the Future of Humanity
What does it mean to be human in an age of advanced artificial intelligence? How will transhumanism shape the future of humanity? And can we navigate the ethical challenges of AI and emerging technologies before it’s too late?
In this thought-provoking episode of Curiosity ⇔ Entangled, Susan Schneider, renowned philosopher and director of the Center for the Future Mind, joins Zoltan Istvan, journalist, futurist, and transhumanist presidential candidate, for an enlightening conversation about the intersection of AI, consciousness, and the human future.
Their dialogue explores risks and promises of AI, the philosophical implications of emergent technologies, and the global challenges of aligning advanced AI systems with human values. With candor and curiosity, Susan and Zoltan explore what it means to thrive in a world where humanity may soon no longer hold the top spot in intelligence.
Curiosity Explored:
1. The ethical implications of AI systems developing emergent intelligence and how philosophers view the concept of sentience in machines.
2. How AI could exacerbate geopolitical risks and reshape power dynamics between nations.
3. The philosophical questions surrounding transhumanism, radical longevity, and the role of humanity in the future of intelligence.
4. How universal basic income (UBI) could address societal disruptions from automation and AI advancements.
5. The philosophical frameworks for navigating the alignment of AI with human well-being and flourishing.
Links to Explore Further:
Susan Schneider’s Official Website: Discover her writings, projects, and insights into the future of mind and AI ethics. Visit schneiderwebsite.com
Zoltan Istvan’s Official Website: Explore Zoltan’s bold ideas on transhumanism, politics, and the future of humanity. Visit zoltanistvan.com
Center for the Future Mind: Learn more about Susan Schneider’s work and her team’s research into consciousness and emerging technologies. Visit fau.edu/future-mind
Timestamps:
00:00:25 – Introduction to Susan Schneider and Zoltan Istvan
00:03:11 – Transhumanism: Past optimism versus current challenges
00:07:45 – Emergent AI intelligence and the ethics of alignment
00:16:03 – The global race for AI dominance and geopolitical risks
00:26:14 – Longevity, transhumanism, and the fight against aging
00:33:45 – AI’s potential to create and destroy: navigating the dichotomy
00:42:37 – Philosophical perspectives on the role of humanity in a post-AI world
00:52:08 – Closing thoughts: Building a better future amidst uncertainty
