Exploring the Future with Freakonomics Radio: “How to Think about A.I.”

Are you curious about the world of artificial intelligence? Do you wonder how it might impact your job, your life, and the future as a whole? Well, you’re in luck because Freakonomics Radio, in its three-part series titled “How to Think about A.I.,” guest-hosted by Adam Davidson, takes you on an eye-opening journey into the realm of artificial intelligence. In episodes 554 through 556, you’ll delve into the past, present, and future of A.I. and explore the profound changes it’s bringing to our world.

Episode 554: Can A.I. Take a Joke?

The journey begins with Episode 554, where Adam Davidson (co-founder of Planet Money) leads us through the captivating world of artificial intelligence. We’ve all heard the grand claims about A.I.’s future, from apocalyptic warnings to visions of human flourishing. But is there room for humor in A.I.’s vast realm? This episode explores A.I.’s past and present, shedding light on whether these sophisticated machines have a sense of humor. As you listen, you’ll be intrigued by the multifaceted nature of A.I. and the surprising ways it intersects with our lives.

Episode 555: New Technologies Always Scare Us. Is A.I. Any Different?

Moving forward to Episode 555, Adam Davidson delves deeper into the question that’s been on everyone’s minds: What happens to our jobs in a world where A.I. reaches human-level intelligence? Are there moments when we should be concerned about the machines becoming too powerful? In this episode, you’ll gain valuable insights into the future of work and how A.I. might shape it. Prepare to challenge your preconceptions about technology’s impact on employment.

Episode 556: A.I. Is Changing Everything. Does That Include You?

Finally, in Episode 556, Adam Davidson brings us face to face with the immediate impact of A.I. tools. While many discussions about A.I. revolve around the future, this episode reveals how A.I. is already transforming our lives today. Discover the practical applications of A.I., how it can be incredibly useful, and why its very utility also raises concerns about its potential dangers. You’ll leave this episode with a newfound understanding of how A.I. is changing the game right now.

But that’s not all; the series also touches upon the fascinating world of machine learning and language models. These technologies are like crystal balls that make mathematical predictions about what words should come next, and they’re at the heart of A.I.’s capabilities.

Additionally, you’ll find an intriguing analogy in these episodes that compares the “brain power” of A.I. models. While ChatGPT 1.0 may have the brainpower of a bee, newer versions like 3.5 or 4.0 are closer to the intellectual capacity of a squirrel. It’s a captivating way to understand the evolving landscape of artificial intelligence.

So, if you’re ready to embark on a thought-provoking journey through the world of A.I., be sure to tune in to Freakonomics Radio’s three-part series, “How to Think about A.I.” With Adam Davidson as your guide, you’ll gain fresh perspectives on the past, present, and future of artificial intelligence, all while uncovering the mysteries of machine learning and the ever-evolving capabilities of A.I. models. Don’t miss out on this enlightening exploration of A.I.’s impact on our world!