The Afterglow of Awe with Jason Silva

Can technology ignite a sense of awe and reshape our understanding of the future? Join Harvest Series podcast host Rose Claverie for an exhilarating discussion with digital artist Jason Silva and Greg Pouy from the French podcast Vlan. Set against the stunning Aegean backdrop, this episode delves into Jason’s visionary take on technology, creativity, and the pursuit of radical hope. Tune in to uncover how awe might become a new form of spirituality and how storytelling shapes our future.

Key Points:

[2:27] Protopian Vision:

• Inspired by Kevin Kelly, Jason identifies himself as a "protopian," emphasizing his forward-thinking and optimistic view of the future amidst technology's evolution.

[5:20] The Dual Nature of Technology:

• Discuss the paradox of technology as a double-edged sword, acknowledging both its potential for good and its challenges.

[7:40] Power of Storytelling:

• Explore the importance of storytelling and the concept that the best story prevails, shaping perspectives and influencing society.

[13:32] Creative Process and Mood Regulation:

• Delve into Jason's creative process, emphasizing mood regulation as a key factor. Explore the relationship between boredom and creativity.

[16:37] Early Inspirations:

• Reflect on Jason's early passion for creativity, sparked by his fascination with his first camcorder at the age of 12.

[20:16] Artificial Intelligence in Art:

• Contemplate Artificial Intelligence's role in art and creativity, exploring its potential impact on artistic expression.

[22:55] Radical Hope:

• Explore Jason's powerful speech on Radical Hope delivered during Harvest in Kaplankaya. Uncover the depth of meaning behind this concept and its significance in the face of uncertainty.

[24:37] Data and Trust:

• Discuss the transformative power of data and its potential to drive change in major corporations, shifting the focus from trust to data-driven decision-making.

[28:21] Awe as a New Spirituality:

• Probe into the idea of awe as a modern form of spirituality, connecting individuals to a sense of wonder and reverence in the digital age.

[30:59] Philosophy on Death:

• Explore Jason's philosophical perspective on death, touching on the profound aspects of mortality and the human experience.

[30:14] Creating Positive Change:

• Envision the simplicity of positive change, discussing what easy or simple actions could significantly improve the world, as envisioned by Jason.

[33:51] Closing Question by Greg Pouy:

• Greg poses question: What would Jason open and slam the door to, signifying his passions and concerns in life?

Thank you for joining us on this enlightening journey with Jason Silva and Greg Pouy. Stay tuned for more captivating episodes on Harvest, where we explore transformative ideas and stories shaping our world.

Next week, we will release mountaineer Sandy Hill's interview in Kaplankaya. She will share her experience on Mount Everest, 27 years ago, during one of the deadliest expedition ever. Don't miss the episode! Until next time!

You can follow us on Instagram at @HarvestSeries or @rose.claverie for updates.

Watch our podcast episodes and speaker sessions on YouTube: Harvest Series.

Credits:

• Sound editing by: @lesbellesfrequences
• Technicians in Kaplankaya: Joel Moriasi
• Music by: Chambord
• Artwork by: Davide d'Antonio

Harvest Series is produced in partnership with Athena Advisers and Capital Partners

Harvest Series Founders: Burak Öymen and Roman Carel