Yuval Noah Harari - “Unstoppable Us, Vol. 2: Why the World Isn't Fair” | The Daily Show

Summary

In this engaging conversation, Yuval Noah Harari discusses the importance of understanding history for self-awareness, particularly for children. He explains how historical knowledge can help us comprehend our fears and desires, rooted in our evolutionary past. Harari emphasizes that while humans created gods and societal structures, they also have the power to change them. He touches on the potential of AI to shape our future narratives and the importance of stories in driving human history. The discussion also humorously addresses the author's views on the role of 'geeks' in shaping our world and the cyclical nature of belief in concepts like money and AI.

Takeaways

• 😀 Yuval Noah Harari discusses the importance of understanding history to know oneself better, relating childhood fears to ancient human experiences.
• 🍰 Harari explains how historical context, like the scarcity of resources in the past, influences current human behaviors, such as overeating.
• 🌱 He suggests that by understanding these historical reasons, individuals can gain better control over their lives and emotions.
• 📚 The conversation touches on the chapter 'Diarrhea Days' from Harari's children's book, illustrating how history can explain the origins of diseases and epidemics.
• 🏡 Harari points out the unintended consequences of human innovations, such as the Agricultural Revolution leading to the rise of infectious diseases.
• 🤖 The discussion warns about the potential risks of new technologies like AI, drawing parallels to past technological revolutions.
• 🌟 Harari emphasizes that humans have the power to shape the world and change unfair structures, as they are the creators of these systems.
• 💸 He refers to money as 'the greatest story ever told,' highlighting the power of shared beliefs and narratives in human society.
• 😇 Harari maintains a neutral academic stance, focusing on explaining historical facts without expressing personal opinions or emotions.
• 🙏 The interview concludes with Harari expressing both hope and concern for the future, acknowledging the potential for change but also the risks of new technologies.
• 🎨 Lastly, Harari speculates on the future of AI in art and storytelling, suggesting that it may eventually surpass human creativity.

Q & A

Why did Yuval Noah Harari decide to write a children's book about the history of humanity?

Yuval Noah Harari believes that understanding history is essential for self-awareness, and that even children can benefit from knowing where their fears and behaviors originate from.

According to Harari, why do children often fear monsters under their beds?

Harari explains that this fear is a memory from our ancestors' time on the savanna, where actual predators like cheetahs and lions could threaten children.

What is the historical reason behind our tendency to overeat unhealthy food, as mentioned by Harari?

In the past, when humans lived on the savanna, it was advantageous to consume as much sweet food as possible to store energy for times of scarcity.

How does Harari suggest that understanding our evolutionary history can help us control our lives?

By understanding why we have certain instincts, such as fear or overeating, we can take steps towards managing these behaviors more effectively.

What is the significance of the chapter 'Diarrhea Days' in Harari's children's book?

The chapter 'Diarrhea Days' is used to explain the origins of epidemics and how the shift from hunter-gatherer societies to settled agricultural communities increased the risk of disease.

Why did hunter-gatherers not suffer from epidemics as Harari describes in the script?

Hunter-gatherers lived in small bands and would move locations if someone got sick, thus preventing the spread of diseases like diarrhea.

What message does Harari think history is trying to convey to us in the current era?

Harari suggests that history warns us about the unintended consequences of our actions and emphasizes that humans have the power to change the world they have created.

How does Harari view the role of technology, such as AI, in shaping our future?

Harari believes that technology like AI is not deterministic; it's how we choose to use it that will shape our societies and politics.

What does Harari consider the greatest story ever told?

Harari refers to money as the greatest story ever told because it holds value solely based on the collective belief in its value.

What is Harari's stance on the role of stories in human society and history?

Harari views stories as a superpower of humans, influencing everything from culture to politics, and even suggesting that changing stories can change the world.

How does Harari respond to Ronny Chieng's question about the future creation of stories and art by AI?

Harari acknowledges the potential for AI to create art and stories in the future, but he also expresses concern about the implications of this development.