In this special two-part podcast Ariel Conn is joined by Max Tegmark for a conversation with Dr. Matthew Meselson, biologist and Thomas Dudley Cabot Professor of the Natural Sciences at Harvard University. Part Two focuses on three major incidents in the history of biological weapons: the 1979 anthrax outbreak in Russia, the use of Agent Orange and other herbicides in Vietnam, and the Yellow Rain controversy in the early 80s. Dr. Meselson led the investigations into all three and solved some perplexing scientific mysteries along the way.
Claire Boine discusses how AI companion apps can foster attachment and dependency through design and freemium models. The episode examines privacy, risks for children and teens, legal gaps in the EU and US, and policy approaches to social harms.
Michael Toscano discusses family-centered AI policy, including AI companions, sexualized chatbots, self-harm risks, schools, and smartphone use. He argues that governance should hold technology accountable to families and children’s development.
Anthony Aguirre of the Future of Life Institute discusses A Better Path for AI, arguing against races to replace people and for purpose-built AI tools with human control, guardrails, accountability, and international cooperation.
