The conversation between Jon Kabat-Zinn and Yuval Noah Harari focuses on the relationship between human consciousness and the rise of artificial intelligence (AI). Harari argues that AI increasingly influences human behaviour and decision-making, particularly algorithms. He cautions that AI’s tendency to prioritise engagement over reality can exacerbate social problems like hate speech and misinformation. Kabat-Zinn, a renowned mindfulness expert, suggests that meditation practices, which cultivate awareness and non-judgmental observation, could serve as an antidote to the potential negative impacts of AI. He emphasizes the importance of cultivating a deeper understanding of our minds and the interconnectedness of all sentient beings. Both speakers explore the potential for a human renaissance, driven by a renewed focus on introspection and embodied experience.
