Gradient Proof cover art

Gradient Proof

Gradient Proof

Written by: Steven W Sorensen
Listen for free

About this listen

 A longform discussion between co-hosts Roy Peer, an architect turned entrepreneur and sci-fi author, & Steven W Sorensen, a global soul turned tech finance and corporate board enthusiast, on a wide range of topics ranging from AI to philosophy to entrepreneurship. We aim to bring on great minds, from the renown to the unknown, to discuss things we find interesting.

We start each podcast sober and let the proof gradient the course of discussion. Just like Hitchcock built suspense by placing a ticking time b-mb under the table of two people having a simple conversation, the status along the gradient proof can act to end the discussion at any moment, preferably on a high note, yet sometimes leaving questions unanswered. We encourage you to drink with us, and let the questions lead you to your own answers and explorations.

We hope you’ll join us on the journey, cheers.Copyright Gradient Proof Economics Social Sciences
Episodes
  • EP8 - AI Envisioned: The Next Architectural Epoch

    EP8 - AI Envisioned: The Next Architectural Epoch
    Nov 3 2023
    In this episode, “AI Envisioned: The Next Architectural Epoch”, speakers Roy Peer and Steven W Sorensen discuss various aspects of architecture and its evolution. They explore how technology has influenced architectural design throughout history, using examples such as the development of steel and elevators in New York City. They also discuss the work of architects like Louis Sullivan and Zaha Hadid, highlighting how advancements in technology have allowed for more complex and innovative designs. The speakers emphasize the importance of considering various forces, such as climate and cultural norms, when creating efficient and inclusive spaces. They also discuss the power of architecture to influence people and shape the identity of a city, using landmarks like the Eiffel Tower and the Empire State Building as examples. The podcast raises questions about the representation of different regions and cultures in architectural discussions, noting the absence of South America and Africa in the list of 100 buildings discussed. The speakers also explore the potential future of architecture, discussing topics such as reconfigurable homes, augmented reality, and the integration of technology in creating personalized and immersive living spaces. Overall, the podcast provides insights into the relationship between technology, architecture, AI and the human experience.

    In this Episode:
    [00:00] Architecture's changing forms and influences
    [13:45] Technological advancements in architecture
    [22:02] Designing optimal and personalized homes
    [30:21] Exploring path and experiential architecture
    [43:15] The impact of space and culture
    [52:58] Architectural feats and bold innovations
    [1:05:20] Imagining limitless architectural possibilities

    Bios:
    Roy Peer is an architect turned entrepreneur. After working for award-winning architects, Diller Scofidio + Renfro in New York City, he started a virtual reality company, which later sold to a notable Hollywood director in 2018. Peer is the founder of PeerBasics, a data-driven products company that analyzes e-commerce sales data to drive product launch decisions in multiple categories with multiple factory partners in Asia. Peer is the author of Simulation Arcade, a sci-fi novel that paints a possible future world where AI and brain chips are commonplace and details how humanity meets its AI cocoon moment and how to stop it.

    Steven W Sorensen is the director of corporate finance at droppGroup / droppLabs, an AI / ML web3 video & mixed reality shopatainment marketplace and co-founder & COO of Fotin Media. Steven calls NYC home, has lived in China for seven years and has an MA and M.Phil in English from The University of Hong Kong. He likes jazz piano and good whiskey.

    Mentions:
    A History of Architecture in 100 Buildings by Dan Cruickshank (2015)
    The 99% Invisible City: A Field Guide to the Hidden World of Everyday Design (2020)

    Keywords: #AI #architecture #artificialintelligence #NewYorkCity #technology

    Whiskey: Knob Creek No. 9
    https://www.knobcreek.com/our-products/kentucky-straight-bourbon-whiskey

    Where to find us:
    Website: https://www.gradientproof.com/
    Spreaker: https://www.spreaker.com/show/gradient-proof
    YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCxL7P577RYAfZs2Urlfen8A/videosfZs2Urlfen8A
    Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/gradient-proof/id1609791261
    Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/79hPGESVg6PQoFYPW6hr2H
    iHeart: https://www.iheart.com/podcast/53-gradient-proof-92828114/
    Amazon: https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/49fd0440-ab6c-465f-853c-5f50542d7880/gradient-proof
    Google Podcast: https://podcasts.google.com/feed/aHR0cHM6Ly93d3cuc3ByZWFrZXIuY29tL3Nob3cvNTQyMzIyNi9lcGlzb2Rlcy9mZWVk?sa=X&ved=0CAIQ4aUDahcKEwiQzYXL5In2AhUAAAAAHQAAAAAQAQ&hl=en
    BuzzSprout: https://www.buzzsprout.com/1943076/resources
    PocketCasts: https://pca.st/6sea2xpb
    Deezer: https://www.deezer.com/us/show/3406232
    PlayerFM: https://player.fm/series/gradient-proof
    PodChaser: https://www.podchaser.com/podcasts/gradient-proof-4249087
    Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/gradientproof
    Twitter: @gradientproof https://twitter.com/gradientproof

    Other Projects:
    Buy Simulation Arcade in Paperback
    https://www.amazon.com/dp/B09QF3YPV4
    Simulation Arcade Pre-Release NFT (comes with author-signed copy)
    https://opensea.io/collection/author-release
    Fotin Media https://fotinmedia.com/
    droppLabs.io https://dropplabs.io/
    Show More Show Less
    1 hr and 20 mins
  • EP7 - First, AI Resistance. Then, Human Renaissance

    EP7 - First, AI Resistance. Then, Human Renaissance
    Jul 31 2023
    The Gradient Proof podcast features Steven W Sorensen and Roy Peer discussing the potential implications of artificial intelligence (AI) becoming more advanced and intelligent. They explore the potential of combining different nodes of AI development to create a more general artificial intelligence, and the pushback against AI research, particularly GPT research, with an open letter calling for a six-month moratorium on AI research. The speakers discuss the fear of job displacement and the resistance that may come from those who have spent their lives developing certain skills. They also talk about the potential for AI to make certain jobs more efficient and the resistance that may come from those who fear change. The podcast highlights the importance of considering the potential implications of AI becoming more advanced and intelligent, and the need for ethical considerations in its development. The speakers also discuss the potential biases of AI systems and the importance of finding efficiencies in achieving goals. The conversation highlights the potential of AI to solve problems and find efficiencies, but also raises questions about the limitations and biases of AI systems. Overall, the podcast provides insights into the potential of AI and its impact on self-actualization and problem-solving.

    In this Episode:
    [1:45] Being Human in The Age of Artificial Intelligence
    [06:23] Prompt Engineers
    [11:45] ChatGPT Sets the Bar in the AI Market
    [20:23] ChatGPT: an Architect's Creative Ally or Foe
    [26:20] Ensuring AI's Ethical Boundaries
    [36:15] AI's Transformative Ability to Learn and Adapt
    [39:35] Trajectory of AI in the Years to Come
    [53:00] ChatGPT and Resistance
    [58:40] Old Forester 1870
    [1:00:17] Comparing Human Intelligence with Artificial General Intelligence
    [1:01:49] Assessing Our Progress to Superintelligence

    Bios
    Roy Peer is an architect turned entrepreneur. After working for award-winning architects, Diller Scofidio + Renfro in New York City, he started a virtual reality company, which later sold to a notable Hollywood director in 2018. Peer is the founder of PeerBasics, a data-driven products company that analyzes e-commerce sales data to drive product launch decisions in multiple categories with multiple factory partners in Asia. Peer is the author of Simulation Arcade, a sci-fi novel that paints a possible future world where AI and brain chips are commonplace and details how humanity meets its AI cocoon moment and how to stop it.

    Steven W Sorensen is the director of corporate finance at droppGroup / droppLabs, an AI / ML web3 video & mixed reality shopatainment marketplace and co-founder & COO of Fotin Media. Steven calls NYC home, has lived in China for seven years and has an MA and M.Phil in English from The University of Hong Kong. He likes jazz piano and good whiskey.

    Mentions:
    Superintelligence: Paths, Dangers and Strategies by Nick Bostrom (2014) https://www.amazon.com/Superintelligence-Dangers-Strategies-Nick-Bostrom/dp/0199678111

    Keywords: #ChatGPT #ArtificialIntelligence #Ethical #Research #SuperIntelligence #HumanIntelligence

    Whiskey: Old Forester 1870 https://www.oldforester.com/products/old-forester-1870-original-batch-whisky/

    Where to find us:
    Website: https://www.gradientproof.com/
    Spreaker: https://www.spreaker.com/show/gradient-proof
    YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCxL7P577RYAfZs2Urlfen8A/videosfZs2Urlfen8A
    Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/gradient-proof/id1609791261
    Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/79hPGESVg6PQoFYPW6hr2H
    iHeart: https://www.iheart.com/podcast/53-gradient-proof-92828114/
    Amazon: https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/49fd0440-ab6c-465f-853c-5f50542d7880/gradient-proof
    Google Podcast: https://podcasts.google.com/feed/aHR0cHM6Ly93d3cuc3ByZWFrZXIuY29tL3Nob3cvNTQyMzIyNi9lcGlzb2Rlcy9mZWVk?sa=X&ved=0CAIQ4aUDahcKEwiQzYXL5In2AhUAAAAAHQAAAAAQAQ&hl=en
    BuzzSprout: https://www.buzzsprout.com/1943076/resources
    PocketCasts: https://pca.st/6sea2xpb
    Deezer: https://www.deezer.com/us/show/3406232
    PlayerFM: https://player.fm/series/gradient-proof
    PodChaser: https://www.podchaser.com/podcasts/gradient-proof-4249087
    Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/gradientproof
    Twitter: @gradientproof https://twitter.com/gradientproof

    Other Projects:
    Buy Simulation Arcade in Paperback
    https://www.amazon.com/dp/B09QF3YPV4
    Simulation Arcade Pre-Release NFT (comes with author-signed copy)
    https://opensea.io/collection/author-release
    Fotin Media https://fotinmedia.com/
    droppLabs.io https://dropplabs.io/
    Show More Show Less
    1 hr and 37 mins
  • EP6-P1 ChatGPT AI & the Swift End of Life 2.0

    EP6-P1 ChatGPT AI & the Swift End of Life 2.0
    Mar 17 2023
    The Gradient Proof podcast features a conversation between Roy Peer and Steven W Sorensen about the potential impact of AI on various aspects of life. They discuss Max Tegmark's book "Life 3.0: Being Human in the Age of Artificial Intelligence," which breaks down the evolution of life into three categories. The podcast hosts speculate on the potential impact of AI on the entertainment industry, including the possibility of wiping out the current industry of celebrities and actors. They also discuss the potential for AI-generated content to be misused for advertising or political purposes. The speakers explore the potential ethical questions that may arise as AI systems become more advanced, including the use of personal AI systems after an individual's death. They also discuss the possibility of AI taking on the resemblance of someone important to an individual, such as a wise grandparent, to provide guidance in certain situations. The podcast also discusses the potential applications of AI in various fields, including creating chatbots that emulate the voices and thought processes of historical figures and optimizing computational resources in gaming. Overall, the podcast provides an interesting discussion on the potential future of AI and its impact on human life.In this Episode:[01:15] General Evolution of Life[04:22] Maslow's Hierarchy of Needs on Technology[09:33] Past, Present, And Future of Tech[15:24] Future Entertainment And Content Generation[19:23] Manipulation of Information[23:18] The Power of AI[27:32] The Collision Between Personal Action and Actual Data[31:16] AI’s Interaction on Human’s Course of Life[36:02] Correlation of AI and GamingBiosRoy Peer is an architect turned entrepreneur. After working for award-winning architects, Diller Scofidio + Renfro in New York City, he started a virtual reality company, which later sold to a notable Hollywood director in 2018. Peer is the founder of PeerBasics, a data-driven products company that analyzes e-commerce sales data to drive product launch decisions in multiple categories with multiple factory partners in Asia. Peer is the author of Simulation Arcade, a sci-fi novel that paints a possible future world where AI and brain chips are commonplace and details how humanity meets its AI cocoon moment and how to stop it.Steven W Sorensen is the director of corporate finance at droppGroup / droppLabs, an AI / ML web3 video & mixed reality shopatainment marketplace and co-founder & COO of Fotin Media. Steven calls NYC home, has lived in China for seven years and has an MA and M.Phil in English from The University of Hong Kong. He likes jazz, piano, and good whiskey.Quotes:General Evolution of Life[01:15] What Max does is set the book up looking at the evolution of life more generally. He does that by looking at how life has evolved over our planet and the universe. And for him, he breaks it into these different categories: Life 1.0, 2.0, and 3.0.Maslow's Hierarchy of Needs on Technology[04:22] When I first think about these ideas of the stages of life, it lends themselves to Maslow's hierarchy of needs. The lowest level, life 1.0, it's simple and biological, it's how you create a way to survive in the environment that you're placed in. And on a human level, you could say once you've built the log house that protects the wolves and the bears from getting in, how do you think about decorating that log house, making it work, and also, maybe not decorating, but thinking about life now that you don't have to think about avoiding the exterior elements and environment. The technology also adapts from this kind of lower-level shelter and eventually works its way up to self-actualization.Past, Present, And Future of Tech[09:33] What's interesting is, how do we look at the stage of let's say, going back to 2007, when the iPhone initially came out, and the developments it made forward as far as information processing, being able to access information, capture information, play and manipulate that within the palm of your hand. So, if we're looking today, and this is 2007, of this chat GPT, and all these other different features that are currently separated, where does this end up 10, 20, 30 years, and adversely 200 years from now? When these things are so integrated into the current systems, you can see it going leaps and bounds.Future Entertainment and Content Generation[15:24] In the future, I could see that everyone's Netflix is unique, not unique in the selection, but in the actual types of content you're watching. In this particular day, you've had a tough day, you want something uplifting, and you don't even have to let whatever this feature Netflix is. It would automatically generate that based on your day's input. Let’s say fast forward, you've got some brain interface that already knows that. So, you sit down and you want to watch something, you're actually watching exactly what you want to watch, not something recommended.Manipulation of ...
    Show More Show Less
    40 mins
No reviews yet