Existential Hope Podcast: David Deutsch | On Beauty, Knowledge, and Progress

David Deutsch, a physicist and writer, has a broad interest in fundamental concepts. He is credited with discovering the first quantum algorithm and, together with Richard Jozsa, discovering the first quantum algorithm capable of solving certain problems exponentially faster than classical computer science.

Deutsch discusses the intersection of beauty, knowledge, and progress in this episode of Foresight's Existential Hope Podcast. Deutsch's innovative work on quantum algorithms and constructor theory is explored, along with his insights on critical thinking, AI alignment, education, and human progress. The conversation is enlightening and thought-provoking, making it a must-listen for anyone interested in cutting-edge ideas and research.

Full transcript, list of resources, and art piece: https://www.existentialhope.com/podcasts 

Existential Hope was created to collect positive and possible scenarios for the future, so that we can have more people commit to the creation of a brighter future, and to start mapping out the main developments and challenges that need to be navigated to reach it. Find all previous podcast episodes here, always featuring a full transcript, artwork inspired by the episode, and a list of recommended resources from the podcast. Existential Hope is a Foresight Institute project. 

The Foresight Institute is a research organization and non-profit that supports the beneficial development of high-impact technologies. Since our founding in 1987 on a vision of guiding powerful technologies, we have continued to evolve into a many-armed organization that focuses on several fields of science and technology that are too ambitious for legacy institutions to support.

Allison Duettmann is the president and CEO of Foresight Institute. She directs the Intelligent Cooperation, Molecular Machines, Biotech & Health Extension, Neurotech, and Space Programs, Fellowships, Prizes, and Tech Trees, and shares this work with the public. She founded Existentialhope.com, co-edited Superintelligence: Coordination & Strategy, co-authored Gaming the Future, and co-initiated The Longevity Prize. 

Beatrice Erkers is COO at Foresight Institute, and program manager of the Existential Hope group. She has a background in the publishing industry and has several years of experience working with communication at Foresight and at a publishing house. Her special interest in the integration of technology and society has led her to work for Foresight Institute.

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