Today's Conversation

What does it mean to keep wisdom ahead of rapidly advancing technology? In this episode of Today’s Conversation, Max Tegmark, professor and AI researcher at MIT and co-founder of the Future of Life Institute, explores the urgent question of how society can ensure artificial intelligence empowers — rather than endangers — human flourishing.In this episode, Max Tegmark joins NAE President Walter Kim to unpack the profound opportunities and alarming risks posed by AI. Drawing on vivid analogies, historical lessons and real-world examples, they examine why the stakes for wisdom, foresight and moral courage have never been higher.In their conversation, they discuss:Why wisdom must stay ahead of technology’s power — and what happens when it doesn’t;How past successes in safety engineering, like airbags and the FDA, offer a roadmap for responsible AI development;The urgent need for faith communities to raise AI as a moral issue, not just a technical one; andHow re-centering the conversation on stewardship and respon