Why Philosophy Will Matter More Than AI
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About this episode
In this episode, Eric talks with MIT researcher, innovation expert, and author Michael Schrage about why artificial intelligence is forcing leaders to rethink much more than technology.
Michael argues that AI is exposing fundamental questions about purpose, value creation, critical thinking, collaboration, and what organizations are actually trying to optimize. As AI becomes increasingly capable, technical skill alone becomes less differentiating. The real advantage shifts toward asking better questions, making better judgments, and understanding the tradeoffs behind every decision.
The conversation explores why experimentation is replacing traditional R&D, why collaboration creates better outcomes than isolated AI use, how promptathons develop stronger thinking, and why organizations obsessed with efficiency may be missing AI’s greatest opportunity.
Eric and Michael also discuss innovation economics, creative destruction, recommendation engines, philosophy, critical thinking, human capital, experimentation, management, education, prompt engineering, organizational strategy, and the future of work.
One of Michael’s central arguments is simple:
Software ate the world. AI is eating software. Philosophy will increasingly shape AI.
At its core, this episode is about becoming a better thinker in a world where intelligence is becoming abundant but judgment remains scarce.
Questions Answered
- Why does Michael Schrage say philosophy “eats” AI?
- Why are so many companies approaching AI incorrectly?
- How should leaders think about AI beyond automation?
- What is the difference between efficiency and value creation?
- Why is experimentation replacing traditional R&D?
- What are promptathons, and why do they work?
- How does AI change collaboration?
- What makes organizations innovative?
- Why will critical thinking become more valuable in the AI era?
- How should businesses balance optimization versus exploration?
- What should young people study as AI advances?
- How can AI help people become more valuable rather than simply more productive?
Episode Links
- Michael’s MIT Sloan Management Review article, Philosophy Eats AI: https://sloanreview.mit.edu/article/philosophy-eats-ai/
- Michael Schrage’s books: https://www.amazon.com/stores/Michael-Schrage/author/B001KIV9TW
For more episodes: https://unfoldingthought.com
Questions or guest ideas: [email protected]
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