El Podcast

E117: Why AI Hype is More Dangerous Than You Think – w/ Kevin LaGrandeur, PhD

Episode Summary

In this insightful conversation, Kevin LaGrandeur (PhD) delves into the consequences of AI hype for both consumers and businesses, emphasizing the dangers of over-reliance and the need for regulation. Kevin shares his experiences with technology in education and discusses his views on the current and future impacts of AI. Topics include the ethical concerns around data privacy, the potential for AI in enhancing productivity, and the dangers of unregulated AI in areas like weaponization and surveillance. The discussion also touches on societal impacts, such as how brain-computer interfaces could widen the gap between the rich and poor, and examines examples from literature and sci-fi as predictors of our AI future.

Episode Notes

In this wide-ranging conversation, Jesse speaks with Dr. Kevin LaGrandeur, AI ethicist and former professor at NYIT, about the dangers of AI hype and the ethical dilemmas emerging from rapid technological development.

They cover:

• The real risks of AI overreliance by consumers and businesses
• DeepSeek and the illusion of American AI dominance
• Why Elon Musk’s Neuralink may be more dangerous than helpful
• AI in warfare, surveillance, and predictive policing
• How universities stifle dissent around tech criticism
• The myth of digital natives and what students don’t know
• Brain-computer interfaces, data privacy, and the future of work
• Sci-fi that best predicts our present and future (Blade Runner, Severance, Altered Carbon)

Dr. LaGrandeur argues that AI holds promise—but without thoughtful regulation and ethical constraints, we risk losing control over what it means to be human.

📺Watch the entire video on YouTube➡️https://youtu.be/a6tT0J0yhAc