Do technological innovations yield net gains in the long run? (with Justin Smith-Ruiu)

Oct 25, 2023 1h 26m 10 insights Episode Page ↗
Spencer Greenberg and Justin Smith-Ruyu discuss tech solutionism's limits, arguing technology often creates new problems. They explore how algorithmic content and financialization diminish genuine art and intellectual pursuits, and the decline of academic humanities, advocating for DIY creativity and independent thought.
Actionable Insights

1. Value Internalized Skills

Prioritize developing skills that are carried within oneself, referred to as ’techne,’ rather than solely relying on external gadgets. The loss of such internalized skills should be viewed with concern, similar to species extinction or language loss, as they are intrinsic to being human.

2. Embrace DIY Creativity

Actively engage in independent, self-produced artistic and intellectual endeavors, such as writing on platforms like Substack or creating memes. This approach is presented as the most valuable hope for the survival of genuine art and thought in a world increasingly shaped by algorithms and financialization.

3. Cultivate Independent Thought

Pursue intellectual and artistic interests based on organically grown personal reasons and intrinsic curiosity, rather than allowing external forces like algorithms, administrative mandates, or short-term financial incentives to dictate one’s thinking and priorities. This fosters authentic engagement and prevents intellectual distortion.

4. Seek Diverse Aesthetic Experiences

Actively search for diverse and varied artistic and cultural experiences that are not curated by algorithms, such as exploring a used record store’s bargain bin. Avoid relying solely on algorithmic recommendations, which tend to prioritize similarity and audience captivation over true aesthetic awakening or exposure to the avant-garde.

5. Distinguish Art from Content

Develop a critical discernment between genuine ‘art,’ which often involves unique creative impulses that defy rules, and ‘content,’ which is typically churned out according to algorithmic criteria for maximizing audience captivation. Recognize that content may not ‘build you up’ or offer the same profound value as art.

6. Anticipate Tech’s New Problems

Adopt a mindset that acknowledges technology’s inherent tendency to generate new problems even as it solves old ones. Be wary of the ‘solutionist mindset’ that assumes definitive or permanent technological fixes, and consider the deep, intrinsic trade-offs involved in technological innovation.

7. Beware Financialization’s Influence

Recognize financialization as a primary driver behind the decline of genuine art and intellectual pursuits, as it often dictates how algorithms are used to maximize profit. This leads to a focus on ‘safe’ and algorithmically optimized outputs rather than creative risk-taking or difficult, boundary-pushing art.

8. Question Unqualified Progress

Reflect on the idea that human life has not necessarily gotten ‘better’ on balance due to technological innovation, but rather has traded one set of problems and values for another. Consider elements beyond economic indices when evaluating the true quality of life and historical advancements.

9. Guard Liberal Rights

Be aware of and concerned by any ‘insouciance’ towards abandoning sacrosanct liberal rights, particularly free speech, even when discussions arise about boundaries with hate speech or insults to marginalized groups. This vigilance is crucial for preserving liberal freedoms in the future.

10. Critically Engage Humanities

Recognize that academic humanities have shifted focus from exploring diverse ’life worlds’ to demonstrating ‘relevance to solving contemporary problems’ based on current administrative priorities. If you value humanistic inquiry, be prepared to pursue it independently rather than relying on institutional frameworks that may distort its original purpose.