What happens to human beings in a world without scarcity? If all our needs were met, would we actually be better off? Will technological progress lead to utopia or collapse?
Humans are living through massive improvements in material conditions. More people have access to food, energy, and technology than ever before. Steven Kotler examines what this kind of abundance does to us. It may support a more comfortable life, but it can also erode the conditions that sustain a sense of purpose.
We also discuss how attention and identity are being affected by technological progress. As AI systems take on more optimization and decision-making, the role of human thought may change, raising questions about what remains distinctly human in how we engage with the world.
Read Peter Diamandis' and Kotler's book, 'We Are as Gods,' here: https://www.simonandschuster.com/books/We-Are-as-Gods/Peter-H-Diamandis/Exponential-Technology-Series/9781668099544
Chapters:
[00:00] Introduction to Steven Kotler
[00:15] Universe 25 and the Problem of Abundance
[03:06] Mouse Dynamics and Human Parallels
[10:30] Abundance, Individuality, and Meaning
[17:18] Tradeoffs of Abundance
[27:31] The Impact of Overload and Burnout
[32:59] Skepticism About AI and Technology
[46:53] Population and Ecological Pressures
[54:52] Human Creativity in an AI World