Digest for 3/2/2026

Scared of superintelligent AI? You should be, says neuroscientist and philosopher Sam Harris -- and not just in some theoretical way. We're going to build superhuman machines, says Harris, but we haven't yet grappled with the politics and ethics of how best to contain and manage them.

AI is massively transforming our world, but what should we do about the jobs it displaces? AI investor Kai-Fu Lee shares a blueprint for rethinking work in the age of intelligent machines.

There's a lot of talk about the need to regulate AI, but physicist Max Tegmark says we need to think bigger: what if we could design AI to make our lives better in every way? Tegmark explores the exciting possibilities of life with superintelligent machines -- and how we can ensure that the benefits of AI are shared fairly.

Shohini Ghose wants us to get excited about quantum computers, which operate using an entirely different logic than classical computing. She explains the basics and explores what makes quantum computing so powerful.

Dario Gil uses a deck of cards to explain the principles of quantum computing and its transformative power.

Quantum physicist Nicole Yunger Halpern explores how quantum technologies could transform energy, computing, and data security, including quantum-resistant encryption to protect against future threats.

Green-minded architect and designer William McDonough asks what our buildings and products would look like if designers took into account all children, all species, for all time.

At his carpet company, Ray Anderson has increased sales and doubled profits while turning the traditional 'take / make / waste' industrial system on its head. In a gentle, understated way, he shares a powerful vision for sustainable commerce.

Physicist Amory Lovins lays out a plan for weaning the US off oil and revitalizing the economy by focusing on energy efficiency and renewable sources.