Silicon Dreams

#10 - We are non-playable characters; humanoids creating humanoids.

In this episode we render ourselves, for a brief moment, a version that is unsubstantiated by the data used to extrapolate our behavioral patterns. The best part is that we prove this to ourselves by being completely unable to show we have any original thoughts. It's a great reflection of how 1X's Neo robot is really just ourselves - struggling to cope with "reality."

#9 - Blood Batteries: The Children Mining Your Phone

We examine the stark realities behind the latest iPhone releases, highlighting the contrast between technological advancement and the hidden human costs. The episode spotlights exploitation in mining, where Congolese children earn just $1-$2.50 a day extracting cobalt and copper for phone batteries. We explore the tradeoffs between the benefits of continued innovation and the impact on lives of those that shoulder the burden of global tech consumption.

#8 - Silicon Dust & Ritual Fire: Burning Man, Billionaires, and the Battle for the Soul of the Desert

We explore the intersection of technology, art and community at Burning Man, with an emphasis on the evolving role of the technocracy and the tensions this creates within Burner culture. We begin by highlighting the event's core rituals, and then examine the influential presence of the tech industry elites which marks the festival as both a social and cultural nexus for Silicon Valley's innovators.

The Nefarious Adventures of a Deepfake Mark and a Bored-Tatenda

Mark and Tatenda deep dive on how deepfakes are the prime example of how art and technology are inherently the same. From the idea and motivation of creation, to how we philosophically judge these creations that the two endeavors are just the same. But what does this mean for the responsibility of the artist and engineer? How does this play into a more equitable future?

Tatopia: drone tech and mag lev is big urban chillin'

Tatenda and Mark talk broadly about the problems that plague our cityscape. Focusing more on key indicators and some pivotal but infant technologies that could change how we live and effectively erase hundreds of years of the economic disparities. Including but definitely not limited to: tele-health / health tech, transportation / vehicle democratization / self driving, and urban gardening / advance hydroponic systems.  We also find the time to give Elon Musk some free advice!