This podcast episode explores the relationship between the economy, technology, and societal progress. It delves into the impact of technological advancements, such as AI, on economic prospects, growth, and inequality. The conversation raises important questions about the historical perspective of past technological revolutions and the potential for AI to create a two-tiered society. It also discusses the negative effects of the agricultural economy and the British Industrial Revolution on workers, as well as the changes in the 1970s that shifted progress towards more pro-capital, anti-worker outcomes. The potential gains and drags of AI on society are examined, along with concerns about algorithmic manipulation and the engagement economy. The conversation touches on the possibility of a new age of abundance with AI and the importance of distribution. It also explores the need for human-machine collaboration, democratic control in AI development, and regulatory measures to address the impact on labor and society. The example of China's approach to regulating AI is discussed, highlighting the importance of democratic means and objectives in regulation.
