Paul Krugman on UFOs, AI and Room Temperature Superconductors

This podcast episode discusses various topics including the implications of AI technology, the possibility of room temperature superconductors, and the existence of extraterrestrial life. Economist Paul Krugman shares his views on these topics and explores their economic implications, such as the potential for interstellar trade and the impact of alien technologies on Earth's economy. Takeaways • Astronomer and science communicator Paul Krugman believes that intelligent life beyond Earth is likely, and the chances of it being advanced are almost zero. • The existence of extraterrestrial life and their advanced technology could have profound implications for economics and trade, including the potential for interplanetary commerce. • Measuring the impact of technology on economic growth and quality of life is challenging due to limitations in traditional methods and the need to consider unmeasured factors. • Predicting the impact of new technologies is difficult due to uncertainty and the varying significance of different technologies. • AI has the potential to displace jobs, particularly high-status, high-education jobs, which could have significant implications for employment and the economy. • Technology has historically disrupted high-status jobs, and the impact of AI may not necessarily be favorable to higher-wage workers. • Partisanship can influence economic perceptions, and people may be more likely to perceive negative economic developments in relation to others rather than themselves. • Science fiction stories often lack in-depth exploration of alternative economic systems beyond existing models, and there is a need for creative stories that envision different economic futures.