Season 7, Episode 3 - "AI still can't give you a hug. Not yet." cover art

Season 7, Episode 3 - "AI still can't give you a hug. Not yet."

Season 7, Episode 3 - "AI still can't give you a hug. Not yet."

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We already guessed it, but now we have the science to back it up: bots successfully drive up engagement of online platforms, but also drive down human connection in the process. For all the clamor, excitement, and maybe dread about an AI-powered future, we did settle on the fact its human connection that still matters most. But is that the path we’re headed down?

Beyond this, we also look into hydrocarbon-producing leaves, underwater habitation, not-so-forever chemicals, using light to make AI computations, and much more.

Please, enjoy.

Sean’s links:

* Bacteria can now eat forever chemicals and their toxic byproducts

* Bots ⬆ user engagement, but ⬇ human connection

* Real life Bioshock

* OpenAI competitor for made with $50

Ben’s links:

* Artificial leaves that make hydrocarbons

* Using light to make AI computations

* AI-powered self-healing sustainable asphalt

* Battery made of yarn and powered by seawater

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