"He spoke of computers with some awe"

The author discusses his recent conversation with physicist Sean Carroll on the Mindscape podcast about his book "Tripping on Utopia". He shares a detail he discovered during his research about the "simulation hypothesis", the idea that the observable universe could be a computer simulation. He found a reference to this theory in a 1968 interview with Margaret Mead, where she recalls a conversation with scientist John von Neumann, who was toying with the idea in the years after World War II.

The author also discusses Mead's prescient thoughts on self-improving AI systems, which she discussed in the 1948-1950 period. He highlights how Mead's thoughts reflect many present-day concerns about AI and technology. The author is currently reading "The MANIAC", a novel about von Neumann, and plans to resume his weekly newsletter postings in April.

Key takeaways:

The author discusses the concept of the "simulation hypothesis" and its possible origins in a 1968 interview with Margaret Mead and John von Neumann.
Margaret Mead's insights from the 1948-1950 period, when digital computers were just a few years old, are considered prescient and relevant to current discussions on AI and technology.
The author finds parallels between Mead's early thoughts and the current global divide in AI policy, particularly between Europe and America's differing attitudes towards technology.
The author is currently reading "The MANIAC", a novel about John von Neumann, and plans to resume a weekly posting schedule in April.

"He spoke of computers with some awe"

Key takeaways:

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