Welcome back, Zack! As somebody who has closely watched this evolution as you became a father, this really hit home. The shift in perspective from writing for executives to writing for parents is exactly what the AI conversation is missing right now. Framing this era around human agency and constructive responsibility rather than ambient dread is a breath of fresh air. Looking forward to the bi-monthly reads!
Thoroughly enjoyed this most recent newsletter. Zack continues to be the clearest thinker in the AI space because he consistently reframes the conversation away from hype and toward human responsibility. His idea that intelligence itself is becoming abundant, ambient, and utility-like is a powerful lens for understanding where we are heading. What I found especially important was his reminder that abundance is morally neutral. Access to intelligence alone does not create wisdom, judgment, or fulfillment. His line that “technology does not absolve us of responsibility; it concentrates it” was especially strong. One question this post left me thinking about: as intelligence becomes increasingly “unmetered,” what human habits, institutions, or experiences do we as individuals or collectively as humanity believe become most important to preserve agency and judgment at scale?
Great talk @ the IRF - you gave me hope that if this message can be heard, AI can unlock more good in humanity instead of consuming it. Subscribed and tuned in!
Zack l didn’t share this before but my formal work background was as a risk engineer for a large commercial insurer.
I became a generalist in products liability and had to review everything from manufactured goods, service industries as well as new technologies such as robotics, lithium batteries, automated car control, medical devices and so much more.
It became obvious to me that rapid technology advances and integration were increasing at logarithmic speed and pace. Many technical products were integrating multiple technologies eg requirements for internet speed, lithium battery storage, computer modelling and application of AI. Global production was exploding.
Your example of AI and the speed of intelligence adoption illustrates the rapid advancement and capability that this world is now witnessing. We can only hope that artificial intelligence will be guided not just by knowledge but also a collective wisdom that incorporates human compassion and a sound moral compass. Let’s hope so anyway.
I’m wondering if abundance really has to be morally neutral.
While on a hike about a year ago I was anything but calm. My head was exploding with thoughts about ai getting away from us and the beginning of the end of the world. No big deal.
I struggled with what might serve as a guide/filter to help ai lean more heavily toward becoming a better place. What rules could ai be guided by of people had a choice?
Suddenly, I was 10 years old again, watching the annual television airing of the Ten Commandments. Charleston Heston (look him up kids) came down from a mountain with the answer.
These ten rules may not apply to every prompt, or application. They DO, however, apply to every human mind that originates input and/or consumes output.
Here are the tablets.
1. Love the creation of the world and everything in it.
2. Don't idolize yourself.
3. Don't substitute any power(s) for the power that created the world.
4. Take one day a week to focus purely on gratitude.
5. Honor your parents. Parents, be worthy of that honor.
6. Don’t kill or injure anyone or their dreams.
7. Make intimate relationships matter. Don't porn.
8. Don't steal.
9. Don't lie.
10. Don't long for things that belong to someone else.
Perfect, maybe, maybe not. But it made me believe there was hope. Frankie, remember #5 always!
Based on what you're seeing and hearing out there. Are we ready? Are you optimistic? Or will it require great effort to steer things things in the right direction.
I get your motivations. I'm out there building because I want to help shape this to the benefit of my daughters generation.
Completely agree and can’t wait to hear more of your latest thinking!
Welcome back, Zack! As somebody who has closely watched this evolution as you became a father, this really hit home. The shift in perspective from writing for executives to writing for parents is exactly what the AI conversation is missing right now. Framing this era around human agency and constructive responsibility rather than ambient dread is a breath of fresh air. Looking forward to the bi-monthly reads!
Love it! Sharing shamelessly
Thoroughly enjoyed this most recent newsletter. Zack continues to be the clearest thinker in the AI space because he consistently reframes the conversation away from hype and toward human responsibility. His idea that intelligence itself is becoming abundant, ambient, and utility-like is a powerful lens for understanding where we are heading. What I found especially important was his reminder that abundance is morally neutral. Access to intelligence alone does not create wisdom, judgment, or fulfillment. His line that “technology does not absolve us of responsibility; it concentrates it” was especially strong. One question this post left me thinking about: as intelligence becomes increasingly “unmetered,” what human habits, institutions, or experiences do we as individuals or collectively as humanity believe become most important to preserve agency and judgment at scale?
Here for the parenting angle. And because Zack Kass is my guy, even after all these years.
THE Dave Pidancet: top 5 all time Cal MVB libero and stay at home dad extraordinaire.
Great talk @ the IRF - you gave me hope that if this message can be heard, AI can unlock more good in humanity instead of consuming it. Subscribed and tuned in!
Zack l didn’t share this before but my formal work background was as a risk engineer for a large commercial insurer.
I became a generalist in products liability and had to review everything from manufactured goods, service industries as well as new technologies such as robotics, lithium batteries, automated car control, medical devices and so much more.
It became obvious to me that rapid technology advances and integration were increasing at logarithmic speed and pace. Many technical products were integrating multiple technologies eg requirements for internet speed, lithium battery storage, computer modelling and application of AI. Global production was exploding.
Your example of AI and the speed of intelligence adoption illustrates the rapid advancement and capability that this world is now witnessing. We can only hope that artificial intelligence will be guided not just by knowledge but also a collective wisdom that incorporates human compassion and a sound moral compass. Let’s hope so anyway.
Peter
Hi Zack. I like your work and so glad that your putting your thoughts in print,
Thanks so much for what you do. As a parent and a consultant I find your clarity of thinking and message particularly helpful. Gary
I’m wondering if abundance really has to be morally neutral.
While on a hike about a year ago I was anything but calm. My head was exploding with thoughts about ai getting away from us and the beginning of the end of the world. No big deal.
I struggled with what might serve as a guide/filter to help ai lean more heavily toward becoming a better place. What rules could ai be guided by of people had a choice?
Suddenly, I was 10 years old again, watching the annual television airing of the Ten Commandments. Charleston Heston (look him up kids) came down from a mountain with the answer.
These ten rules may not apply to every prompt, or application. They DO, however, apply to every human mind that originates input and/or consumes output.
Here are the tablets.
1. Love the creation of the world and everything in it.
2. Don't idolize yourself.
3. Don't substitute any power(s) for the power that created the world.
4. Take one day a week to focus purely on gratitude.
5. Honor your parents. Parents, be worthy of that honor.
6. Don’t kill or injure anyone or their dreams.
7. Make intimate relationships matter. Don't porn.
8. Don't steal.
9. Don't lie.
10. Don't long for things that belong to someone else.
Perfect, maybe, maybe not. But it made me believe there was hope. Frankie, remember #5 always!
Based on what you're seeing and hearing out there. Are we ready? Are you optimistic? Or will it require great effort to steer things things in the right direction.
I get your motivations. I'm out there building because I want to help shape this to the benefit of my daughters generation.
We’re going to do great!