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PODCAST

Modem Futura

Sean Leahy, Andrew Maynard

Modem Futura is a weekly futures podcast exploring the future of science, technology, and society — your guide to where foresight meets real-world impact. Hosts Sean Leahy and Andrew Maynard — educators, futurists, and public scholars — dive into the breakthroughs and big questions shaping tomorrow: AI ethics, space exploration, climate tech, bio-engineering, digital media, STEM education, and the shifting future of work. In candid, banter-filled conversations with innovators, scholars, and

technology social sciences

All Episodes

01:07:02

Simulation Hypothesis with Rizwan Virk

Modem Futura ·

2024/11/19

Are we living a simulation? We get 'real' with the simulation hypothesis, exploring its implications on reality, consciousness, and ethics. The conversation with Riz covers various themes including the nature of simulations, the multiverse, the Mandela effect, quantum physics, and the philosophical and religious implications of living in a simulated reality. The conversation also touches on the ethical considerations surrounding AI and the rights of simulated beings, ultimately questioning the

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01:02:41

Waymo we go! - Navigating the Future of Autonomous...

Modem Futura ·

2024/11/12

In this conversation, Sean and Andrew explore the future of transportation, particularly focusing on driverless cars and the implications of autonomous vehicles. They discuss the current state of technology, the various levels of automation, and the societal changes that may arise from widespread adoption of self-driving cars. The conversation also touches on personal experiences with Waymo, the challenges of public perception, and the potential benefits for individuals with disabilities. In this

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00:57:16

Can Machines Think?

Modem Futura ·

2024/11/05

Hosts Sean and Andrew reflect on the challenges of defining human identity in the context of advancing technology and the responsibilities of society in managing these innovations. In this conversation, our hosts explore the evolving landscape of AI, particularly focusing on OpenAI's transition to a for-profit model. They discuss the ethical implications of AI development, the ecological impact of technological changes, and the societal responsibilities that come with innovation. The conversation

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00:42:32

Halloween edition featuring War of the Worlds

Modem Futura ·

2024/10/31

In this Halloween special Sean and Andrew are joined by Ed Finn, the founding director of the Center for Science and the Imagination. The conversation explores the historical impact of Orson Welles' radio adaptation of H.G. Wells' War of the Worlds, the role of technology in storytelling, and the cultural significance of Halloween. They discuss how speculative fiction can inspire collective imagination for better futures, while also reflecting on societal fears and anxieties. In this engaging

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00:36:27

Bio Hacking

Modem Futura ·

2024/10/29

In this episode, hosts Sean and Andrew jump right into the complex themes surrounding biohacking, data ownership, and the ethical implications of genetic data. They explore the historical context of data ownership, the evolution of biohacking, and the responsibilities that come with technological advancements. The conversation also highlights the case of 23andMe, discussing the potential risks and benefits of personal data collection and the need for regulations to protect individuals. Ultimately,

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00:34:11

Daydreaming of digital notebooks and virtual...

Modem Futura ·

2024/10/22

LinksH.G. Wells 1902 / 1913 "The Discovery of the future" (available via HathiTrust)Andrew's Article on NotebookLM (available via Substack)Main talking points and takeawaysNotebook LM allows AI to create podcast-like summaries.AI-generated content can sound convincingly human.Listening to AI can challenge our perception of truth.Generative AI is evolving beyond simple text generation.Spatial intelligence in AI could revolutionize interactions.AI's biases reflect human biases in its training data.The

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00:47:25

What does it mean to be human in the future?

Modem Futura ·

2024/10/15

In this episode of Modem Futura, hosts Andrew and Sean get into the complexities of the future of being human, exploring the role of technology, innovation, and individual perspectives in shaping our collective futures. They discuss the importance of curiosity, creativity, and inclusivity in futures studies, while also reflecting on the historical context provided by figures like H.G. Wells. The conversation emphasizes the need for a balanced approach to navigating technological advancements and the

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00:21:49

The Pilot - Exploring the Future of Being Human

Modem Futura ·

2024/10/08

In this pilot episode of Modem Futura, hosts Sean Leahy and Andrew Maynard explore the intersection of technology, society, and the human experience. They discuss the origins of the podcast, the significance of the Future of Being Human Initiative, and the importance of inclusive conversations about the future. The episode highlights personal journeys into futurism, the need for diverse voices in discussions about emerging technologies, and the wonder of scientific exploration. The hosts also tease

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00:02:40

Hello World! [it's a trailer]

Modem Futura ·

2024/10/01

Welcome to Modem Futura, where we journey into the future to explore the dynamic intersection of technology, society, and humanity. In this trailer, get a glimpse of how we dive into the innovations shaping our world and challenge the myths and narratives that define what it means to be human in a rapidly changing landscape. Tune in for an adventurous exploration of the ideas that will inspire new ways of thinking about tomorrow.-----Modem Futura is a production of the Future of Being Human

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