The kind of AI we actually need | Van Jones · TED Talks Daily summary

Key takeaways

The rapid pace of AI development is creating a significant 'adaptation gap' that could lead to social unrest if not addressed.
Returning to ancestral and grassroots wisdom can help bridge the technological and human gap, fostering more humane AI development.
A new social contract between tech companies and society is necessary to ensure AI benefits all, especially marginalized communities.
Collaboration between engineers and grassroots organizations can lead to innovative, socially responsible AI solutions that promote equity and inclusion.
Tech leaders should slow down, practice humility, and reconnect with community values to develop technologies that support human flourishing, not domination or disconnection.

Summary

The Exponential Growth of AI and the Human Adaptation Gap

Van Jones discusses the rapid, exponential development of AI and other advanced technologies such as biotech and space exploration, contrasting this with humanity's more linear rate of adaptation. He emphasizes the dangerous 'adaptation gap'—the distance between technological growth and our ability to keep up—which could lead to social unrest and widespread disillusionment if not addressed. He critiques attempts to slow down technological progress through legislation, noting the impracticality of such measures given the speed of innovation.

Wisdom and Ancient Intelligence as a Solution

Jones advocates for returning to ancient and ancestral forms of wisdom to help bridge the adaptation gap. He suggests that modern society, especially the tech community, should incorporate these timeless principles—like community, prayer, and collective wisdom—into the development and deployment of AI. This approach could foster a more humane and equitable integration of technology into society and prevent the dehumanization that might come with unchecked technological growth.

A New Social Contract and Collaboration Between Tech and Grassroots Communities

The speaker calls for a new deal between big tech companies and humanity, emphasizing shared responsibility and the need for inclusivity. He highlights examples of projects that pair engineers with grassroots organizations, aiming to create AI solutions that serve underserved communities—such as programs for employment, legal aid, and social services. Jones envisions a future where technology and grassroots knowledge collaborate to co-create a more just and humane civilization, with increased AI literacy at the grassroots level.

Call for Ethical and Humane AI Development and Community Engagement

Jones warns against the dangers of greed, speed, and complacency among tech leaders. He advocates for a movement grounded in hope, love, and ancestral wisdom, urging tech developers to slow down, reflect, and reconnect with community values. He stresses that AI should serve human flourishing, and that ancestral wisdom, community engagement, and humility are vital in shaping a future where technology benefits everyone, not just a privileged few.

Show notes

Social entrepreneur Van Jones believes a new human civilization is being born in real time — and that our technology is racing ahead of our wisdom. In this urgent and hopeful talk, he reframes the AI debate, showing why the real danger isn't the technology itself but rather the communities it leaves behind. His solution? A new deal between big tech and humanity, built on a different kind of "AI" that we desperately need.

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The kind of AI we actually need | Van Jones