Existential Hope Drop #12: David Deutsch, Oxford University
On Beauty, Knowledge, and Progress
April 2023
In this Hope Drop, we are thrilled to feature David Deutsch, an esteemed physicist, writer, and thought-leader, known for his pioneering work in quantum computing and constructor theory. Join us as we delve into his captivating ideas and research.
David Deutsch's hopes for the future:
David Deutsch is a physicist, writer, and innovative thinker, celebrated for his groundbreaking work in quantum computing and constructor theory. His diverse interests span across various fundamental concepts that shape our understanding of the universe.
David speaks on:
The connection between beauty, knowledge, and progress, and how they drive us forward as a society
The potential and challenges of emerging technologies such as quantum algorithms and AI alignment
The significance of taking children seriously in shaping the future of humanity
This episode offers a fascinating exploration of David's visionary ideas, inviting you to ponder the vast possibilities for humanity's advancement and the essential principles guiding us on our journey.
The Creation of the Universal Constructor
David Deutsch envisions the universal constructor as a potential eucatastrophe for the future, capable of revolutionizing manufacturing and eliminating human toil. Once operational, these machines could multiply exponentially, shifting human roles towards providing knowledge and programming assistance. This transformation may lead to the development of highly sophisticated tools, akin to ChatGPT's role in easing writing efforts, thus paving the way for a brighter, more advanced future.
About the art
This artwork portrays an envisioned universal constructor. It was created by Minh Nguyen (@menhguin), using Midjourney, Photoshop and random ADHD-induced art hobbies.
About the artist
Minh is the cofounder of FridaysForFuture Singapore, worked on a peer support subreddit used by 80% of teenagers in Singapore, and has done policy advocacy since high school. After interning at Nonlinear, he's exploring AI Safety (AIS) advocacy, launching an AIS online university and startup ideas that aid AIS research. Minh is an optimist because "if not, work would be way too depressing".
NEWS FROM THE XHOPE ECOSYSTEM
Best of the Xhope Library
AI Alignment & Security - Paul Christiano. On how the relationship between security and alignment concerns is underappreciated.
Unilateralist’s Curse: The Case for a Principle of Conformity - Anders Sandberg, Nick Bostrom, Tom Douglas. On the dangers of individual actors racing ahead in AGI development.
Operating Manual for Spaceship Earth - Buckminster Fuller. On realizing humanity’s long-term potential with a focus on resource utilization and sustainability.
Help Navigate the Threats to Humanity's Future: Join the ERA Cambridge Fellowship
ERA— a project fiscally sponsored by Rethink Priorities—is accepting applications for the 2023 ERA Cambridge Fellowship (formerly known as the CERI Fellowship). During July and August, fellows will receive free housing and transportation while being paid to work on better understanding and mitigating AI safety, nuclear risk, biorisks, extreme climate change, or other existential risks while learning from experienced researchers.
Apply by April 5.
Learn more about our work at existentialhope.com.