Excellent podcasting on many topics. Regarding the AI episodes: why does no one point out that if AI is so literal minded it might destroy humanity by turning us all into paperclips, in response to the request/order to make paperclips, that’s AI is not intelligent at all, if so literal minded it doesn’t process or understand the context of a simple request like that? It’s not intelligent to act in so rote a way it becomes uncontrollably destructive. Or understand a request and its inherent limitations. Isn’t that obvious? The paperclip example is not describing a hyper intelligence, and certainly not even as intelligent as an average human.

Sean Illing’s The Gray Area is the only Vox programming I make sure I catch when it drops every Monday. His choice of topics and guests, and his thoughtful and always honest conversation provide a welcome respite from the much of the noisy political conversation that floods the media and podcast world. I encourage everyone who wants to think just a little beyond the daily headlines and worrisome news to try out his podcast.

I always look forward to new episode drops—these interviews/discussions are the thoughtfully conducted and to-the-point, while simultaneously inviting listeners to stay open-minded with gray topics.

Would you please have Katherine Stewart on with her new book Money, Lies and God. You do a great job asking insightful questions. Thanks

I look forward to every episode released. I listen to a LOT of podcasts shows and this is the one I’ve notice myself getting the most excited for. They always cover such interesting topics deeply and things that I believe people are wondering about in their own heads.

Poignant, clarifying and muddling, gracias!

Sean brings guests to the show with unique insights into current societal conditions. Love it.

Is America Broken? In my own opinion, this may sound contradictory. There are times in the past this country HAD been broken, and it has managed, so far. Yet at present, it may seem somewhat broken - depending on whom you ask - but I believe it’s only in need of a lot of fixing, along with some change. Some things take work TO work. Others may seem somewhat outdated, and may need to catch up with the changing - society, generations, industries. It’s no doubt a strong system that’s proven for some centuries. I just would not choose to see it - although I’ll never live to witness - become one of those lost civilizations, with only artifacts and concrete, to leave one to wonder, of what once may have been. - s. jxn- ga

What role does lying play in the broken system? Reagan said government is the problem. Since that time, republicans have chipped away at making these institutions less effective. If congress worked, the systems would work.

A show that contextualizes philosophical thought (and other vital disciplines of mind and action) for our modern world. The host and guests are always enjoyable and entertaining.