Modem Futura

Latest Episodes:

Envisioning Tomorrow: The Power of Futures Thinking with Ruth Wylie Dec 03, 2024

Show notes

In this engaging conversation, Sean, Andrew, and Ruth explore the themes of visualization, futures thinking, and the importance of agency in shaping personal and collective futures. They discuss the challenges individuals face in visualizing concepts and the role of lived experiences in imagining future scenarios. The conversation also gets into the significance of introducing futures thinking in education, particularly for young people, to foster resilience and empower them to shape their own futures. In this conversation, the speakers discuss the evolving role of educators, emphasizing the need for futures thinking in classrooms. They explore the importance of empathy and social responsibility, the shift from dystopian narratives to hopeful futures, and the impact of individual actions on creating a better world. The discussion also touches on the Goldilocks principle in futures thinking and how life experiences shape our ability to envision the future. Ultimately, they argue for a transformative approach to education that fosters imagination and prepares students for an uncertain future.

Links:

ASU's Center for Science and Imagination

Chapters

00:00 Introduction and Setting the Stage

02:01 The Challenge of Visualization

09:55 Imagining Futures: The Role of Experience

15:01 Futures Thinking in Education

20:49 The Importance of Agency in Shaping Futures

22:22 The Evolving Role of Teachers in STEM Education

24:01 Understanding Futures Thinking

26:30 Navigating Uncertainty in Education

28:05 Empathy and Social Responsibility in Futures Thinking

30:00 Shifting Perspectives: From Dystopia to Hope

32:44 Building a Better Future: Individual Actions Matter

34:10 The Goldilocks Principle in Futures Thinking

39:10 The Impact of Life Experience on Future Thinking

45:04 Imagination in Education: Breaking Free from Constraints

46:38 The Evolution of Education vs. Industry

48:59 Infusing Futures Thinking into Education

49:59 Parental Perspectives on Education

53:46 The Importance of Open-Ended Questions

56:39 Becoming Citizen Futurists

01:00:42 Who Owns the Future?

01:08:30 Closing Thoughts and Future Engagement

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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

Subscribe to our YouTube Channel: @ModemFutura

Host Bios:

Sean M. Leahy, PhD - ASU Bio
Sean 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 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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Can AI Reason Like Humans? Nov 26, 2024

Show notes

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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Host Bios:

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Simulation Hypothesis with Rizwan Virk Nov 19, 2024

Show notes

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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Host Bios:

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Waymo we go! - Navigating the Future of Autonomous Driving Nov 12, 2024

Show notes

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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Host Bios:

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Future of AI: Can Machines Think? Nov 05, 2024

Show notes

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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Host Bios:

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Halloween edition featuring War of the Worlds Oct 31, 2024

Show notes

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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Host Bios:

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Futures and Ethics of Bio Hacking Oct 29, 2024

Show notes

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:

Andrew's 23andMe Substack article

Key conversational takeaways

Ownership of personal data raises significant ethical questions about identity and privacy.
Technological advancements can lead to unforeseen consequences that require careful consideration.
Biohacking can range from non-invasive methods to more extreme measures, blurring the lines of medical ethics.
The future of personal data is uncertain, especially with companies like 23andMe facing challenges.
Synthetic data could provide opportunities for innovation while protecting individual privacy.
The intersection of technology and humanity requires ongoing dialogue about ethics and responsibility.
Exploring the unknown possibilities of biohacking can lead to both positive and negative outcomes.

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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Host Bios:

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Daydreaming of digital notebooks and virtual artificial worlds Oct 22, 2024

Show notes

Links

H.G. Wells 1902 / 1913 "The Discovery of the future" (available via HathiTrust)
Andrew's Article on NotebookLM (available via Substack)

Main talking points and takeaways

Notebook LM allows AI to create podcast-like summaries.
AI-generated content can sound convincingly human.
Listening to AI can challenge our perception of truth.
Generative AI is evolving beyond simple text generation.
Spatial intelligence in AI could revolutionize interactions.
AI's biases reflect human biases in its training data.
The future of AI includes more sophisticated architectures.
AI can create immersive virtual environments.
Humanoid robots are becoming more accessible and relevant.
Critical engagement with AI is essential for its ethical use.

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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Host Bios:

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What does it mean to be human in the future? Oct 15, 2024

Show notes

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:

H.G. Wells 1902 / 1913 "The Discovery of the future" (available via HathiTrust)

Key Takeaways

AI tools have seen a rise and fall in popularity.
The Future of Being Human initiative aims to explore diverse perspectives.
Future studies help us imagine and shape our futures.
Individual futures are as important as collective futures.
Technological advancements require careful navigation.
Innovation is an inevitable part of being human.
Curiosity and creativity are essential for future thinking.
Inclusivity in discussions leads to richer insights.
H.G. Wells laid the groundwork for future studies.
Humanity is still evolving and not the final product.

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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Host Bios:

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The Pilot - Exploring the Future of Being Human Oct 08, 2024

Show notes

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