Metaviews to the Future

Jesse Hirsh welcomes Cameron Cowan to Metaviews for an engaging discussion that traverses the complexities of contemporary politics, media, and the future of AI. The conversation kicks off with an exploration of current events, including the legal troubles surrounding Rudy Giuliani, which highlights the often ironic and convoluted nature of political alliances and consequences. Cowan shares his insights on the potential fallout from the upcoming elections, particularly as it relates to the U.S. and its neighbors. The dialogue delves into the future of AI, with Cowan predicting that 2025 will be pivotal in determining the real-world applications of artificial intelligence and the value it can deliver across various sectors. Both Hirsh and Cowan express skepticism about the so-called AI bubble and examine how military interests may drive technological advancements in ways that traditional markets may not.Takeaways: Cameron Cowan believes 2025 will be pivotal for AI's practical applications and value creation. Both Jesse and Cameron highlight the importance of independent media in counteracting mainstream narratives. The conversation stresses how grassroots media can amplify progressive voices and influence public discourse. Cameron warns about the socio-economic impacts of AI, predicting significant job losses by the decade's end. The podcast discusses the necessity for a collaborative media ecosystem to support diverse viewpoints. Cameron emphasizes the need for progressive funding mechanisms to sustain independent journalism and media production. Links referenced in this episode:cameronjournal.comhttps://creators.spotify.com/pod/show/cameron-cowan/episodes/The-World-is-Changing-----Is-That-Good--with-Jesse-Hirsch-e2tev0nhttps://www.cameronjournal.com/the-world-is-changing-is-that-good-with-jesse-hirsch/

The future of storytelling is being revolutionized by the accessibility of generative AI tools, allowing anyone to become a creator without the traditional barriers of entry. Host Jesse Hirsh welcomes Erich Archer, a seasoned public broadcaster and media innovator, to explore how technology intersects with creativity and public media. Archer shares his journey from commercial television to community media, highlighting the vital role of public broadcasting in a democratic society amidst current funding challenges. They discuss the implications of AI on storytelling, emphasizing how these tools can empower aspiring creators to express their visions more freely than ever before. As they navigate the complexities of AI, copyright issues, and the evolving media landscape, Archer provides insights into the collaborative spirit within community media that fosters creativity and innovation.The conversation between Jesse Hirsh and Erich Archer dives deep into the intersection of storytelling, technology, and community engagement, particularly through the lens of generative AI and its implications for public broadcasting. Archer, an executive director at a community media station, provides valuable insights into how AI tools are revolutionizing the creative landscape, making it possible for anyone to tell their story with minimal resources. This democratization of creativity is a central theme, as they explore how technology can empower individuals to become filmmakers and storytellers, regardless of their background or access to traditional media avenues.Throughout the episode, they discuss the challenges facing public broadcasting in a rapidly evolving media landscape, particularly the funding issues exacerbated by the shift from cable to streaming. Archer emphasizes the importance of community media as a platform for diverse voices and local narratives, which are often overlooked by mainstream outlets. The discussion also touches on the collaborative spirit within public broadcasting, highlighting initiatives to share knowledge and best practices among community stations to adapt to the changing environment.As they navigate the complexities of generative AI, the conversation shifts towards the ethical considerations surrounding content creation, particularly around copyright and artistic ownership. Archer shares his perspective on fair use and the blurred lines that AI tools create in the creative process. The dialogue concludes with a forward-looking vision of storytelling, where the gap between imagination and execution continues to shrink, promising an exciting future filled with innovative narratives and community-driven content.Takeaways: The intersection of public broadcasting and generative AI offers unique opportunities for creativity. Generative AI tools are enhancing storytelling by making production more accessible to everyone. While generative AI has great potential, it also raises legitimate concerns about job displacement. Adoption of AI technology in public broadcasting remains slow despite its rapid advancements. The future of storytelling will see a shrinking gap between imagination and execution. Public broadcasting plays a crucial role in supporting community engagement and media literacy. Links referenced in this episode:www.wired.comwww.midjourney.comwww.cgacreative.comwww.1623studios.org#podmatch

Jesse Hirsh engages in an enlightening conversation with Leighton Campbell about the importance of happiness and the concept of a "happiness equation." Leighton emphasizes that happiness is not just a fleeting emotion but a dynamic state that individuals can actively influence. He argues that we have a moral obligation to maintain our happiness not only for ourselves but also for those around us, as our moods can significantly impact others. The discussion explores how community and belonging play crucial roles in our happiness, and Leighton provides insights on how to evaluate and improve one’s happiness through simple, actionable questions. This episode serves as a call to action for listeners to take charge of their emotional well-being and to contribute positively to their communities.Jesse Hirsh hosts Leighton Campbell on Metaviews for a deep dive into the intricacies of happiness, exploring not only its definition but also its broader implications on personal and societal levels. Leighton challenges the conventional understanding of happiness as a passive experience, arguing that it is a proactive endeavor requiring conscious effort and moral accountability. He draws on his personal journey and insights from Dennis Prager, emphasizing that maintaining a positive outlook is not just beneficial for oneself, but a moral obligation to enhance the collective happiness of the community. This assertion sets the stage for a rich dialogue about how our moods and attitudes can influence others, creating a ripple effect that either uplifts or diminishes the emotional climate around us.The conversation then transitions into Leighton's innovative happiness equation, which serves as a practical tool for self-assessment. This equation, comprised of several targeted questions, allows individuals to gauge their happiness levels and pinpoint specific areas for growth. By engaging with this framework, listeners are encouraged to take actionable steps towards improving their emotional well-being, thereby making happiness a more attainable goal. Leighton's insights here are particularly valuable, as he provides a roadmap for navigating the often overwhelming landscape of personal fulfillment.Moreover, the episode addresses the critical theme of community and belonging in the pursuit of happiness. Leighton offers sage advice on how to identify and engage with groups that foster supportive environments. He underscores the significance of seeking out connections that resonate and encourage personal growth, while also acknowledging the challenges of finding the right fit in social spheres. By fostering an understanding of the dynamic interplay between individual happiness and communal support, this episode serves as a compelling reminder of the collective responsibility we share in nurturing joy within our communities.Takeaways: Leighton emphasizes that happiness is not just a result of circumstances, but something we have control over. The happiness equation serves as a tool to encourage self-reflection and personal growth. Creating a culture of happiness within organizations can enhance collective morale and productivity. Building connections with communities is essential for individual happiness and social fulfillment. Leighton argues that everyone has a moral obligation to maintain a positive demeanor in public. Recognizing the need for belonging can help individuals navigate feelings of alienation and isolation. Links referenced in this episode:happinessseq.cominstagram.com/yourhappinesseq#podmatch

In this episode of Metaviews, host Jesse Hirsh dives into the transformative world of composting with special guest Tim Steckel, a passionate advocate and practitioner of soil health and sustainable waste management. Together, they explore the science, art, and philosophy of composting, shedding light on how simple practices can yield profound environmental and economic benefits.Tim shares actionable advice for beginners and seasoned composters alike, discussing everything from selecting the right materials to troubleshooting common challenges. Jesse’s thoughtful questions and engaging dialogue guide the conversation, making complex concepts accessible and inspiring listeners to take action.Whether you're curious about composting’s potential to combat climate change or looking to enhance your own efforts at home, this episode offers an insightful and motivational journey into turning waste into a resource.Introduction0:00 – 5:00: Host Jesse Hirsh introduces the episode and guest, Tim Steckel, highlighting his background in composting and environmental activism.Understanding Composting5:01 – 15:00: Discussion on the basics of composting, including its environmental benefits and the science behind the process.Composting Techniques and Best Practices15:01 – 30:00: Tim shares various composting methods, tips for beginners, and common challenges faced during the composting process.Composting in Community and Commercial Settings30:01 – 45:00: Exploration of large-scale composting initiatives, the role of community involvement, and the impact of composting on local ecosystems.Marketing and Promoting Composting45:01 – 55:00: Insights into how Tim utilizes his marketing expertise to promote composting practices and raise awareness about environmental sustainability.Q&A and Audience Engagement55:01 – End: Jesse and Tim address listener questions, share additional resources, and conclude with final thoughts on the future of composting.#podmatch #makecompostmainstream

Join Jesse Hirsh as he engages in a fascinating conversation with David Fingrut, delving into the vibrant history of the media collective and its impact on Toronto's cultural landscape in the 1990s. They explore how this unique social network fostered collaboration among diverse individuals, bridging various political ideologies while promoting creative projects that challenged mainstream narratives. Fingrut shares insights on the collective's ethos, encapsulated in the slogan "don't get caught," highlighting the interplay between activism, media, and public space. The discussion also touches on the evolution of grassroots movements, drawing parallels to contemporary events like Reclaim the Streets, which sought to reclaim urban spaces through creative protest. As they navigate these themes, Hirsh and Fingrut reflect on the ongoing relevance of these movements in today's socio-political climate, emphasizing the importance of community organizing and the fight for justice.Engaging in a rich conversation about the evolution of media and community activism, Jesse Hirsh and David Fingrut reflect on the legacy of the Media Collective, a group that flourished in Toronto during the late 1990s. Fingrut describes the Media Collective as a vibrant social network that convened in person to collaborate on creative projects, often infused with political undertones. The conversation reveals how the collective fostered a sense of community among diverse individuals who were passionate about media-making and social change, utilizing discussions and monthly meetings to share ideas and launch various initiatives. Hirsh emphasizes the cultural significance of the collective during a period marked by the rise of the internet and alternative media, suggesting that it represented a crucial turning point in how communities engaged with media production.Delving deeper into the socio-political context of their experiences, the hosts discuss how the Media Collective intersected with movements like Reclaim the Streets, which sought to reclaim public space through creative protests. Fingrut recalls the playful yet poignant tactics employed, such as street theater and spontaneous gatherings, which contrasted sharply with conventional forms of activism. The dialogue highlights the necessity of physical presence and community organizing, especially when juxtaposed against the backdrop of today's digital landscape, where online activism often overshadows physical mobilization. As they navigate through the significance of these grassroots movements, both Hirsh and Fingrut underscore a collective yearning for a return to tangible, community-driven activism in the face of modern challenges.The episode culminates with a discussion on the future of activism and the role of media in shaping public discourse. The two ponder the implications of the current political climate, particularly as it relates to the rise of authoritarianism and the erosion of public spaces. They reflect on the lessons learned from the Media Collective and how those principles can inform contemporary movements seeking to reclaim agency in a world increasingly dominated by corporate interests. Hirsh and Fingrut's dialogue serves as a poignant reminder of the power of collective action, the importance of community, and the ongoing struggle for a more just and equitable society, urging listeners to reconsider their roles within these narratives of resistance and resilience.

Roni Robbins, an award-winning author and seasoned journalist, joins Jesse Hirsh on Metaviews to discuss her novel, "Hands of Gold," which delves into her family's remarkable history and the enduring themes of survival and resilience. The conversation highlights the profound impact of personal stories shaped by trauma and triumph, particularly in the context of the Holocaust and the challenges faced by her grandparents. Roni reflects on the shifting landscape of journalism, emphasizing the importance of ethics and unbiased reporting in a time of rampant misinformation. As they explore the lessons from her family's journey, they underline the significance of community and shared experiences in navigating life's adversities. This episode not only celebrates storytelling as a means of connection but also serves as a poignant reminder of the wisdom passed down through generations.Takeaways: Roni Robbins reflects on her grandfather's incredible journey, showcasing resilience through historical challenges. The transition from traditional print journalism to digital platforms has significantly changed the industry landscape. Robbins emphasizes the importance of maintaining ethical standards in journalism amidst a chaotic media environment. Survival is not just an individual act; it often involves family and community support. Robbins discusses how her family's history during the Holocaust inspired her novel, 'Hands of Gold.' The conversation highlights the need for individuals to remain engaged with trustworthy news sources. Links referenced in this episode:ronirobbins.com

Jim Marshall introduces the revolutionary concept of Septemics, a philosophical science that categorizes human phenomena into a hierarchy of seven levels. With a background as a polymathic intellectual, Jim shares insights from his extensive studies spanning psychology, philosophy, and various other disciplines, emphasizing the importance of synthesis in understanding complex human experiences. He explores how education can be transformed to cultivate lifelong learning and improve literacy, arguing that a deeper grasp of language is essential for effective communication. Throughout the discussion, Jim provides relatable examples, illustrating how Septemics can help individuals navigate personal challenges and enhance their relationships. The conversation highlights the potential for Septemics to address societal discordance, offering accessible tools for anyone seeking to improve their lives and understanding of the world around them.The latest episode of Metaviews features an enlightening conversation between host Jesse Hirsh and guest Jim Marshall, a polymathic intellectual renowned for his development of Septemics, a groundbreaking framework for understanding human behavior. The episode opens with a timely discussion about the potential ramifications of the Supreme Court's rulings on social media platforms like TikTok, setting the stage for deeper insights into the nature of knowledge and its application in our lives. Hirsch and Marshall explore how the specialized nature of contemporary society often leads to echo chambers and a lack of holistic understanding, emphasizing the need for interdisciplinary approaches to learning.Marshall shares his personal journey of over 50,000 hours dedicated to studying various aspects of human potential, underscoring the importance of lifelong learning and the cultivation of curiosity. His experiences reveal a profound understanding of how language and literacy impact our ability to connect, comprehend, and communicate effectively. He argues for a reevaluation of the educational system to prioritize vocabulary and language skills as fundamental tools for personal and societal development, which aligns with the core tenets of Septemics. By articulating human experiences through a seven-level hierarchy, Septemics serves as a practical tool for individuals seeking clarity in their relationships and personal dilemmas.Throughout the episode, Marshall provides relatable examples, illustrating how Septemics can facilitate deeper self-awareness and problem-solving. The discussion culminates in an exploration of how this framework can address the discordance experienced in modern society, offering a pathway towards unity and understanding. As Marshall articulates, Septemics is not merely an academic exercise but a practical philosophy that can empower individuals to navigate their lives with greater purpose and insight. This episode serves as a compelling reminder of the potential for transformative knowledge to shape our understanding of ourselves and each other.Takeaways: Jim Marshall emphasizes the importance of synthesizing knowledge across disciplines to solve complex human problems. The concept of septemics offers a structured approach to understanding and improving relationships. Education should focus on enhancing language skills to promote better communication and understanding. Jim Marshall believes that a lifelong love for learning can lead to personal transformation. The scales of septemics can provide individuals with insights into their relationships and personal dilemmas. Understanding natural laws, as presented in septemics, can help individuals navigate life's challenges more effectively. Links referenced in this episode:septemics.com

Hey friends! We're back!Episode 16: ResurgenceAfter a long hiatus, Metaviews to the Future returns with a renewed sense of purpose. In this special episode, we reflect on the journey of Metaviews so far—its origins, milestones, and the critical conversations that have defined our work.This moment of resurgence marks the beginning of a new chapter, as we double down on our mission to envision a future of authority that serves everyone. Against the backdrop of rising authoritarianism, we explore how to look beyond its grip, toward its eventual collapse and failure. What does it take to build systems of power rooted in wisdom, nature, and participation?Join us as we examine the past, embrace the present, and chart a course for a more just and funky future. The stakes couldn’t be higher, and the conversation starts here.https://metaviews.substack.comhttps://jessehirsh.com

The pandemic has transformed work and learning, and this will be particularly evident as we emerge into a post-pandemic world. One person’s disruption is another person’s opportunity. Similarly some organizations have responded with incredible resilience, and are experiencing unprecedented growth and success.Historically great crises and catastrophes are followed by renaissances and periods of incredible innovation. What’s the difference between success and failure, between depression and excitement? Talent. This is true for both individuals and organizations.How do you foster and harness your talent? How do organizations attract, develop, and retain talent? These are crucial questions during this transitional period as we remain in a pandemic but seek our path out of it!

As a futurist and social designer, Andriana Lagoudes builds inclusive systems for sidelined people to unlearn their shame. Andriana does this by navigating and researching through complex political problems to design new code based on people’s best case scenario.In this episode of Metaviews, Andriana joins host Jesse Hirsh to talk about the politics of the future, the politics of care, and why we're living in a moment where ethics may be more important than aesthetics.To learn more about Andriana check out her website https://andrianalagoudes.com/And follow her on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/andriana.lagoudes/

Vasiliki Bednar from Regs2Riches.com joins Jesse Hirsh to talk about the problems arising from copy and paste public policy. This is what happens when policy makers copy other jurisdictions blindly, rather than engage in a policy process that adapts to the needs of jurisdiction. Obviously policy makers can and should learn from each other and best practices, yet often the process is the purpose, and blindly copying others leads to problems down the road.

Business_Daddy is the name of a twitch user, artist, community organizer, chef, and brilliant intellectual. Their efforts to create community on twitch are both inspirational, but also controversial. In this tale of algorithmic injustice, we explore how on social media, you're often presumed guilty, without the opportunity to prove your innocence.https://twitter.com/hotdoghalo

Alberto Cottica from the Science Fiction Economics Lab joins Jesse Hirsh to talk about Sociopathic Innovation and using science fiction to imagine alternate economic systems.Alberto's essay on sociopathic innovation:https://edgeryders.eu/t/sociopathic-innovation-how-we-are-investing-most-in-the-most-evil-technologies-long/15979The science fiction economics lab:https://scifieconomics.world/

Jesse Hirsh speaks with Reuben Christian about his work exploring the intersections of our culture while getting people together to experience joy. He argues we need more emotional literacy to better appreciate our shared humanity. If more people could meet themselves, perhaps we'd focus more on our presence, rather than our future.https://www.instagram.com/reubenchristian1/

Vasiliki Bednar leads us on a discussion on the potential of public platforrms.We have come to rightfully resent the propaganda of the gig economy that assures us platform companies are equitable when they tend to be exploitative. But they don’t have to be predatory. Other jurisdictions are experimenting with worker-owned platform co-operatives. It’s not too hard to imagine public sector platforms. Indeed, we must first re-imagine them as we consider whether they are worth investing in and building in-house. There are plenty of places in the public sector that are characterized by matching problems that could be solved with an efficient platform designed with the public good in mind: Substitute teachers and school boards; Teaching graduates and school boards;Medical school graduates and residencies;Personal support workers and home care; Citizens and psychotherapists;Postdoc positions at Canadian universities; Etc. *The province has a lot of regulated professions, but that doesn’t mean that all of them are characterized by matching inefficiencies. Bike share programs are also a neat case study re: public investment and/or partnership in bike sharing infrastructure.  We have certain stereotypes that have come to be associated with platforms that we need to move past if we really want to reimagine them.What is an ethical/responsible platform that benefits the very same labour that it showcases? Can they exist and persist with a modest profit margin as a non-profit or thrive as a worker-owned co-operative? Can members embrace higher price points that support livable wages and benefits?

The pandemic has empowered professionals to pursue a balance between life and work, leading many to move out of major cities to find refuge in rural communities. What does this shift mean for the future of work and the role of super cities? How should government policies support rural economic development while also investing in cities as economic engines? Is the Internet transforming where we work? Fibre optic internet is one obvious essential requirement, but so are robust transportation networks, and self-driving vehicles. Can we work anywhere and everywhere?The ‘future of work’ is about more than work environments. The global challenge is to ensure that workers have the right resources to improve their lives, but to enable them to continue to work productively. For many this will mean the opportunity to live in a community that exists on a smaller, arguably human scale.Free fibre optic Internet to the home for everyone everywhereActive investment in transportation infrastructure and self driving vehiclesFree online education for students of all agesFlexible work policies that make it easier for people to choose where they workAffordable housing in rural environments as well as urban

Chad Thiele is the founder of the AI Content Dojo, a group exploring the rise of GPT-3 powered automating writing and copy editing tools.We spoke with him about the emerging industry forming around APIs like GPT-3 and other automated media tools.

Murley Herrle-Fanning joins us to discuss NFTs, crypto art, and virtual real estate.As per usual, the reporting on this technology driven phenomena is misleading at best, entirely wrong at worst. Although I’m not convinced that this is a technology story per se, but rather an investing, or scam story. In so far as the Art world is a combination of the two.For example the figures cited in NFT stories. Those numbers are incorrect, as they are translations. In most cases these transactions are not in dollars, they are in tokens, or ether, as that’s the whole point. These are blockchain transactions, and the purchases are happening in crypto-currency, linking their value with the value of Bitcoin, or Ether.This is relevant because of who would already have this currency, or who would be in a position to acquire it relatively easily.The appeal of such financing is understandable, if you’re willing to trust in this technology that seeks to automate trust.Unfortunately there are ample reasons for us to distrust it.For starters, while the blockchain is designed to verify that items uploaded to the blockchain are indeed those items, that doesn’t prevent someone from uploading something they do not have the rights to upload.Or what about the environmental impact? Or the cultural logic driving this entire process.We discuss all of this and more.

This is the recording of a Metaviews salon we conducted in February 2021, with Vasiliki Bednar and Greg Majster. It was in response to a paper published that featured the following:We are inspired by renewed calls to Defund the Police in the United States, which have reinvigorated vital debate regarding the funding of police departments, who is actually served by them, and what forms of historical injustice are perpetuated by current institutions of policing and incarceration. In the context of the abolitionist movement, to defund means to invite local and regional communities to decide how to redirect the disproportionate funds now invested in enforcement and imprisonment to support alternative, more holistic forms of well being and public safety infrastructure.In the spirit of that movement, we adapt some of its key concepts to the domain of public/community information and communications (ICT) infrastructures, particularly those now dominated by Big Tech. Our proposal is grounded on a key premise: to redirect Big Tech ’s excessive revenue flow, we must transform the conditions and funding structures that enable it.The aim is to free up resources to support a wide range of socially beneficial ends, not least community-based and community-oriented initiatives to develop digital infrastructures that better serve the public interest. While we are not calling for the demise of Big Tech, we are calling for radical reform. This includes abolition of the conditions that create and normalize Big Tech’s disproportionate reach over key ICT infrastructure, and their wide ranging negative consequences for society and the environment. We aim to retain — and expand — the many benefits that people currently derive from digital technologies, while better addressing their individual and collective needs.You can read more here https://techotherwise.pubpub.org/defund-big-tech

Transparency is becoming an easy go to as a solution to almost any problem of the algorithmic era. Given the phrase “black box society” this is understandable, as so much of our world is opaque or secretive, that there is a natural desire for more access and scrutiny.Yet in this rush to champion transparency, are we using a broad brush when greater nuance is necessary?For example, personal privacy is essential, but what about corporate privacy or secrecy? Privacy for the individual and transparency for the corporation seems like a sensible balance. Unfortunately we currently have the opposite.What about government however? Should we afford our governments and politicians similar nuance?James G D’Angelo thinks so. He argues that the impact of transparency on politics has been disastrous. That much of the polarization and sensationalism of politics can be traced back to laws that force greater scrutiny of the minutiae of policy development and politicking.

A Metaviews salon from January 2021 on the topic of responsible innovation. What is it, and why should we be encouraging it? Led by Vasiliki Bednar, this salon looks at how the pandemic provides an opportunity for innovation.

Competition law is increasingly in the news as antitrust and regulatory actions come for Big Tech. In this salon from January 2021, we discuss competition law in general, and particularly in Canada. Robin Shaban from Vivic Research led this discussion.

Paris Marx is a writer, researcher, and host of the podcast "Tech Won't Save Us". We had him on the show to talk about the political economy of innovative technology policies.