Nexus – by Yuval Noah Harari, is turning out to be a very engaging read. Like in all his books, Yuval takes his time to come to the main topic of the conversation, but does so in a systematic manner, and you begin to see the relevance of all what he has spoken about once you get through about half the book.
The book explores the profound impact of information networks on human history, from ancient times to the modern era of artificial intelligence. Throughout the book, Yuval speaks of the power of stories in shaping our thoughts, actions and ultimately our history, and how computers and AI now influence these stories, and in turn our thoughts, actions and our future.
In previous networks, members – those who make active decisions and generate new ideas, were humans. Connections were the technology that connected us humans. Think of clay tablets, books, radio, mobiles etc. They connect humans, but don’t make active decisions and generate ideas. Now, computers have taken on the roles of members, and make active decisions.
Take social media algorithms for instance. They decide what we see on our feeds, and in turn influence our thoughts and actions. Sounds harmless, but it isn’t. Read the book to get to know more!
On another note, I recall a blog from 2021, which was a result of my witnessing the development of actual intelligence – how a human learns stuff. In this case, my Keshav:) Have a read!
I see him picking up an empty can,
carefully, trying to coordinate his limbs,
adjusting his grip, pausing, slipping,
until he gets it upright, and reaches for the smaller can
to slowly lower it into the other,
he misses twice, but does not relent
nor does he let me do it for him,
instead, he tries again, and again
until he finally gets it right,
and then gingerly, the prestige of the trick
lowering the cap onto this contraption
breathing slowly…and aha – it’s done,
and he turns to me, triumphant look on his face,
hand paused in mid-air, waiting for that all-important clap
that we happily oblige him with..and his face lights up
my 10 month-old Rohāmrta and nature at work,
learning a new skill, never grows old
even when you do.