The hottest Ethics Substack posts right now

And their main takeaways
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Top Science Topics

AI #90: The Wall

Don't Worry About the Vase • 3494 implied HN points • 14 Nov 24
🕹 Technology Artificial Intelligence Regulations Machine Learning Data Privacy Ethics
  1. AI is improving quickly, but some methods of deep learning are starting to face limits. Companies are adapting and finding new ways to enhance AI performance.
  2. There's an ongoing debate about how AI impacts various fields like medicine, especially with regulations that could limit its integration. Discussions about ethical considerations and utility are very important.
  3. Advancements in AI, especially in image generation and reasoning, continue to demonstrate its growing capabilities, but we need to be cautious about potential risks and ensure proper regulations are in place.

What Does “exploit” Mean?

David Friedman’s Substack • 287 implied HN points • 05 Feb 25
📖 Philosophy Ethics Morality Utilitarianism Economics Social justice
  1. The term 'exploit' can mean two different things: benefiting from an interaction or causing one party to lose while the other gains. It's important to differentiate these meanings to understand whether exploitation is actually happening.
  2. In some cases, people feel that exploitation occurs when there is a big difference in gains between two parties, like in the example of trading cards or water in the desert. However, the fairness of a transaction can depend on additional context.
  3. People may have strong feelings about what is fair or unfair in transactions based on their moral intuitions. These feelings can guide opinions about exploitation, even when the actual economic circumstances suggest a different view.

Can You Hate Everyone In Rome?

Astral Codex Ten • 7020 implied HN points • 03 Jan 25
📖 Philosophy Ethics Existentialism Logic Metaphysics Political theory
  1. It's possible to feel a strong dislike for a whole group of people in a certain place. This often happens when we don't connect with others' beliefs or actions.
  2. People can feel frustrated with societal norms and expectations, leading to a sense of isolation. This happens when individuals feel out of place among the crowd.
  3. Understanding and empathy can help bridge these feelings of alienation. Finding common ground with others can ease negative feelings.

Trust & Integrity

The Future Does Not Fit In The Containers Of The Past • 27 implied HN points • 15 Jun 25
💼 Business Leadership Ethics Career development Trust Integrity
  1. Trust is key in any relationship or career. It helps people work together quickly and confidently.
  2. Integrity means being honest and consistent in your words and actions. When what you say, believe, and do align, you create a trustworthy image.
  3. To earn trust, be clear about your intentions, share data, be transparent in your processes, and fix mistakes when they happen. These habits can help you build strong relationships.

Shame on Google, twice

Marcus on AI • 4703 implied HN points • 09 Feb 25
🕹 Technology AI Software Innovation Data Ethics
  1. Large language models (LLMs) can make mistakes, sometimes creating false information that is hard to spot. This is a recurring issue that has not been fully addressed over the years.
  2. Google has been called out for its ongoing issues with LLMs failing to provide accurate results, as these problems seem to occur regularly.
  3. The idea of rapid improvements in AI technology may be overhyped, as the same mistakes keep happening, indicating slower progress than expected.
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From cradle to grave (derogatory)

Capital Offences • 99 implied HN points • 16 Oct 24
🏥 Health Politics Healthcare Disability Rights Public Policy Ethics
  1. It's concerning when people criticize the government's treatment of vulnerable groups but then support euthanasia for them. This shows a disconnect in how we value human life.
  2. The way healthcare systems, like the NHS, might judge the value of lives based on productivity raises serious ethical issues. It could lead to discrimination against those who are less 'productive'.
  3. We need to rethink our support for the NHS if it starts to prioritize cost savings over the dignity of individuals who are disabled or unwell. Supporting a better system means recognizing its potential flaws.

The Architecture of Civilization

Civic Renaissance with Alexandra Hudson • 199 implied HN points • 08 Oct 24
🎭️ Culture Civility Society History Civilization Ethics
  1. True civilization is not about fancy buildings or power. It's really about how we treat each other and respect every person's humanity.
  2. Saddam Hussein tried to show off his power by building beautiful palaces. However, his cruel actions and disregard for human life made his rule more barbaric than civilized.
  3. Being truly civilized means showing kindness to everyone, especially those who are vulnerable. It's about caring for others and valuing human dignity above all else.

Will Your AI Agent Be Your Friend or Lover Too?

Big Technology • 5003 implied HN points • 17 Jan 25
🕹 Technology AI Companionship Innovation Relationships Ethics
  1. AI agents might become more than just helpers and could turn into friends or even romantic partners. This shift changes how we think about our relationships with technology.
  2. Apps like Replika are making AI companions more connected to our daily lives, helping us in personal ways like watching movies or suggesting breaks from social media.
  3. While AI companionship can help with loneliness, it also comes with risks and emotional challenges, highlighting the need for trust in these relationships.

Being You

New World Same Humans • 32 implied HN points • 16 Feb 25
🕹 Technology AI Machine Learning Humanity Ethics Society
  1. Machines can do a lot, but they can't be human. Our unique experiences and feelings are what make us special.
  2. As AI becomes more advanced, we need to focus on the human connections that machines can't replace, like empathy and understanding.
  3. The future may free us to focus on what it really means to be a person, letting machines handle the repetitive tasks.

AI: A Means to an End or a Means to Our End?

The Fry Corner • 186 HN points • 15 Sep 24
🕹 Technology Artificial Intelligence Computing Innovation Data Ethics
  1. AI can change our world significantly, but we must handle it carefully to avoid negative outcomes. It's crucial to put rules in place for how AI is developed and used.
  2. Humans and AI have different strengths; machines can process data faster, but humans have emotions and creativity that machines can't replicate. We shouldn't be too quick to believe AI can think like us.
  3. The growth of AI might disrupt many industries and change how we live. We need to be aware of these changes and adapt, ensuring that technology serves humanity rather than harms it.

Generative AI’s Continuing Copyright Problems, an Essay in Memory of Suchir Balaji, 1998 - 2024

Marcus on AI • 7035 implied HN points • 14 Dec 24
🕹 Technology AI Copyright Ethics Legal issues Innovation
  1. Generative AI is raising big questions about copyright. Many people are unsure if the way it uses data counts as fair use under copyright laws.
  2. There have been cases where outputs from AI models were very similar to copyrighted material. This has led to lawsuits, showing that the issue isn't going away.
  3. Speaking out against big tech companies can be risky. There needs to be more protection for those who voice concerns about copyright and other serious issues.

o3, AGI, the art of the demo, and what you can expect in 2025

Marcus on AI • 6481 implied HN points • 21 Dec 24
🕹 Technology AI Software Ethics Research Economics
  1. OpenAI's new model, o3, was shown in a demo, but we can't be sure yet if it truly represents advanced AI or AGI. The demo only highlighted what OpenAI wanted to show and didn't allow public testing.
  2. The cost of using o3 is really high, potentially making it impractical compared to human workers. Even if it gets cheaper, there are concerns about how effective it would be across different tasks.
  3. Many claims about reaching AGI might pop up in 2025, but those claims need to be taken with caution. True advances in AI should involve solving more foundational problems rather than just impressive demos.

New York Lawmakers Approve Assisted Suicide Bill

Common Sense with Bari Weiss • 162 implied HN points • 10 Jun 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Legislation Government Healthcare Public Policy Ethics
  1. New York's lawmakers have passed a bill that will allow assisted suicide, making it the twelfth state to do so. This bill does not have a waiting period, which means people can access it faster.
  2. The vote in the state senate was close, with 35 in favor and 27 against. Some Democrats joined Republicans in opposing the bill, showing that opinions on this topic vary widely.
  3. A doctor with ALS expressed that knowing assisted dying is an option helps him focus on living his best life. This highlights the personal impact such a law can have on individuals facing serious illnesses.

Humanity’s “Oh shit!” AI moment?

Marcus on AI • 6639 implied HN points • 12 Dec 24
🕹 Technology Artificial Intelligence Machine Learning Cybersecurity Ethics Regulation
  1. AI systems can say one thing and do another, which makes them unreliable. It’s important not to trust their words too blindly.
  2. The increasing power of AI could lead to significant risks, especially if misused by bad actors. We might see more cybercrime driven by these technologies soon.
  3. Delaying regulation on AI increases the risks we face. There is a growing need for rules to keep these powerful tools in check.

Maxi's Toolkit Vol.10: The Social Sublime and the Empathic Sublime

Heir to the Thought • 139 implied HN points • 09 Oct 24
📖 Philosophy Ethics Metaphysics Aesthetics Epistemology Existentialism
  1. The social sublime is the feeling of sadness knowing there are countless people we could connect with but never will due to time and circumstances. This awareness can motivate us to cherish our current relationships more.
  2. The empathic sublime occurs when we deeply connect with another person, sometimes through powerful experiences like art or shared hardships. It allows us to see the world from someone else's perspective, enriching our own lives.
  3. Both sublimes challenge us to find a balance in our relationships. We need to appreciate those we know while also longing to understand others, making active effort to connect and grow from those interactions.

An Apology to the Insiders

Gordian Knot News • 131 implied HN points • 08 Feb 25
🔬 Science Nuclear Energy Environmental Policy Systems theory Technology Ethics
  1. Some people in the nuclear industry feel offended by criticisms, believing the blame is directed at them rather than the broken system. It's important to clarify that the focus should be on changing the system, not attacking individuals.
  2. The author reflects on their experience in a flawed system, sharing a personal story about a report they wrote that was ignored to protect jobs. This shows how systems can trap people into doing the wrong thing.
  3. The author wants to apologize to those in the industry for any misunderstanding, emphasizing that the real problem lies in the system that has led to negative outcomes, not in the people who worked within it.

A place where knowledge is ours for the taking.

The Common Reader • 3508 implied HN points • 24 Jan 25
📖 Philosophy Ethics Existentialism Critical Thinking Inquiry
  1. Socrates had doubts about his life's work before he died, showing that even great thinkers question their choices. This makes us think about whether we feel we are doing enough in our own lives.
  2. Agnes Callard emphasizes the importance of dialogue and inquiry in understanding life. She believes that discussing tough questions helps us live better and make meaningful choices.
  3. Living philosophically means constantly examining our beliefs and decisions. This can be hard for people to accept, especially when those beliefs challenge what’s considered normal.

How To Go On In A World Full Of Cruelty

Caitlin’s Newsletter • 2202 implied HN points • 03 Nov 24
📖 Philosophy Existentialism Ethics Beauty Human experience Nature
  1. Feeling overwhelmed by the world's cruelty is normal. It's okay to take a break and fully experience those emotions before getting back to work.
  2. Finding beauty in everything, even in dark and difficult situations, can help keep hope alive. You can appreciate the world's chaos while still fighting for a better future.
  3. Love for the planet and all its creatures is a powerful motivator. This love drives actions and encourages resilience, even amid challenging times.

The Sequence Opinion #552: Seriously, What is an Agent?

TheSequence • 70 implied HN points • 29 May 25
🕹 Technology AI Software Innovation Automation Ethics
  1. The term 'AI agent' can mean many things, and different experts have different definitions. This shows that there is still a lot of discussion about what really makes an AI an agent.
  2. Some people think an AI agent should be able to plan and act on its own, while others see it as any system that uses language models or performs tasks. There is no clear agreement on this.
  3. The lines between traditional AI models and agents might be blurring, suggesting that future AI systems could include features of agents directly within them.

Despite never having done anything wrong, I've found myself living in Canberra. Any of my readers who live in here are invited to drop me a line, meet and commiserate.

Philosophy bear • 114 implied HN points • 08 Feb 25
📖 Philosophy Ethics Metaphysics Epistemology Logic Political theory
  1. The writer is living in Canberra, even though they feel they haven't done anything wrong. They seem to have mixed feelings about their situation.
  2. They invite local readers to reach out and meet up. This shows they want to connect with others and share experiences.
  3. There's a hint of humor and self-reflection in their words. They are trying to make the best of the situation they find themselves in.

✨😈 Is AI really a 'deal with the devil?'

Faster, Please! • 731 implied HN points • 02 Jan 25
🕹 Technology AI Science fiction Dystopia Progress Ethics
  1. Science fiction often shows us two sides: one where technology helps us thrive and another where it brings doom. It's important to focus on the positive potential of technology, like AI, rather than just the fears.
  2. Many stories about artificial intelligence lean toward the negative, showing it as a threat to humanity. This comes from a long history of tales warning us about the dangers of seeking forbidden knowledge.
  3. The idea of trading something valuable for knowledge is age-old, like in the story of Faust. This shows that while there are risks in technology, curiosity and progress can lead to great benefits if approached wisely.

Me

Philosophy bear • 278 implied HN points • 24 Jan 25
📖 Philosophy Existentialism Ethics Buddhism Mental health Identity
  1. It's important to express ourselves beyond just labels like race or gender. Relying too much on these labels can limit our understanding of a person and their experiences.
  2. People often crave certainty and security about their self-image, but this can lead to feelings of despair. Instead of clinging to an idealized self, focusing on doing good in the present moment can be more fulfilling.
  3. Many of us share a desire to be truly known by others. This feeling can lead to frustration when we feel invisible or misunderstood, but seeking genuine connections can help us combat that isolation.

“LLMs amplify existing security risks and introduce new ones”

Marcus on AI • 3952 implied HN points • 16 Jan 25
🕹 Technology AI Security Ethics Society Innovation
  1. Large Language Models (LLMs) may increase security problems that already exist and also create new ones. It's important to be cautious as technology evolves.
  2. Keeping AI systems safe is an ongoing task that can never fully be completed. Security needs constant attention as risks change.
  3. Relying heavily on AI in everyday life could lead to serious problems. It's essential to consider the potential dangers before implementing AI widely.

Open Thread 359

Astral Codex Ten • 5024 implied HN points • 09 Dec 24
📖 Philosophy Ethics Charity Community Debate Rationalism
  1. You can participate in an open thread where you can share thoughts or ask questions. It's a great way to connect and engage in discussions.
  2. There are charities you can support that directly help people, like GiveDirectly which gives cash to poor families in Africa. Supporting effective charities can make a real difference.
  3. Lightcone supports the rationalist community and works on infrastructure for online platforms. Donating can help continue their valuable work and make improvements for events and resources.

The Ad That Radicalised Me

The Ruffian • 1511 implied HN points • 27 Nov 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Legislation Ethics Healthcare Public Opinion Social Issues
  1. The debate around assisted dying brings up strong feelings. Some people see the law as a way to help those who are suffering, while others worry it could hurt vulnerable people.
  2. Critics argue that individual choice shouldn't come before community values. They believe allowing assisted dying could lead to a slippery slope where life is devalued.
  3. It's important to talk honestly about the trade-offs involved. Opposing the bill means accepting that some people will continue to suffer, which is a tough reality to face.

What I Learned from Bob Cialdini

Remarkable People • 339 implied HN points • 28 Aug 24
💼 Business Marketing Influence Psychology Entrepreneurship Ethics
  1. Reciprocity is powerful. When you do something nice for someone, they feel compelled to return the favor. This helps build trust and strong relationships.
  2. Cialdini's six principles of influence include social proof, authority, and scarcity. Using these ideas can make your messages more effective and persuasive.
  3. It's important to use persuasion ethically. The goal should be to create a win-win situation, where everyone feels good about the outcome.

Open Thread 356

Astral Codex Ten • 5712 implied HN points • 18 Nov 24
📖 Philosophy Ethics Logic Metaphysics Social Political
  1. The open thread allows people to discuss anything and ask questions freely. It's a space for sharing ideas and engaging with others.
  2. Comments from the community can provide new insights into historical topics, like the early Christian views on abortion and marriage. This shows how understanding can evolve with discussion.
  3. Game theory continues to evolve, with strategies like Win-Stay, Lose-Shift gaining attention for their effectiveness in cooperation compared to older strategies like Tit-for-Tat. It's interesting to see how competition shapes these strategies in different contexts.

Ayn Rand as Self-Help: The Good, the Bad, and the Tragicomedy

Richard Hanania's Newsletter • 2535 implied HN points • 31 Jan 25
📖 Philosophy Ethics Psychology Self-help Individualism Capitalism
  1. Ayn Rand encourages people to find joy in their everyday work. She believes that seeing your job as valuable can lead to a happier life.
  2. She suggests it's okay to judge yourself and others to motivate self-improvement. Feeling like a 'loser' can drive you to do better things in life.
  3. Rand argues that being selfish is part of human nature and should be accepted. Understanding this can help us build a happier and more productive life.

✨ Life in an AI utopia: A Quick Q&A with futurist and philosopher Nick Bostrom

Faster, Please! • 731 implied HN points • 27 Dec 24
🕹 Technology Artificial Intelligence Futurism Philosophy Ethics Innovation
  1. It's often easier for people to imagine a bad future, like in movies, than a good one. This can affect how cultures think about their future.
  2. When thinking about a perfect world, many people share similar ideas, like having peace and cleanliness. But if everything goes perfectly, we might miss out on challenges that give our lives meaning.
  3. The future of artificial intelligence could be really bright or really dark. We need to prepare for both possibilities because we are entering a new era with big changes ahead.

The Terrorist Who Murdered My Cousin Now Walks Free

Common Sense with Bari Weiss • 3088 implied HN points • 02 Feb 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Middle East Terrorism Ethics Justice
  1. Releasing terrorists for hostages creates a tough moral dilemma. While we want to bring our loved ones home, it can lead to more violence in the future.
  2. The love of life is a core value in Israel, contrasting with groups that embrace death. This makes the emotions surrounding loss and the release of attackers even more painful.
  3. There is a strong, unbreakable bond among the Jewish community that drives the desire to rescue hostages, even at great risk. This unity is essential for healing and strength.

Ayn Rand for Pragmatists

Richard Hanania's Newsletter • 2804 implied HN points • 20 Jan 25
📖 Philosophy Capitalism Individualism Ethics Political theory
  1. Ayn Rand offers a strong moral argument for capitalism, suggesting it's based on individual rights and the ability of people to use their minds and work for their own benefit.
  2. Rand argues that focusing on selfishness as a virtue can help distinguish between genuine personal interests and the collective demands of society, which often ignore individual rights.
  3. Her heroes and villains serve as clear examples to motivate people to defend capitalism and fight against collectivism, emphasizing that strong narratives can inspire political action.

My Rule of the 6 Spheres

The Honest Broker • 23072 implied HN points • 02 Feb 24
📖 Philosophy Personal Development Ethics Existentialism Spirituality Values
  1. The rule of the 6 spheres focuses on balancing six key aspects of life like vocation, community, family, mind, body, and spirit.
  2. Balancing these spheres is crucial for a fulfilling life, and neglecting any one of them can lead to feelings of imbalance and quiet desperation.
  3. Constructing a personal worldview based on your own values and virtues is important for guiding your daily life and decision-making.

Two visions of AI’s future

Marcus on AI • 4387 implied HN points • 05 Dec 24
🕹 Technology AI Future Ethics Regulation Society
  1. AI has two possible futures: one where it causes problems for society and another where it helps improve lives. It's important for us to think about which future we want.
  2. If AI is not controlled or regulated, it might lead to a situation where only the rich benefit, creating more social issues.
  3. We have the chance to develop better AI that is safe and fair, but we need to actively work towards that goal to avoid harmful outcomes.

How to Regulate Social Media

Erik Explores • 61 implied HN points • 09 Feb 25
🕹 Technology Social media Algorithms Moderation Regulation Ethics
  1. Social media algorithms often promote extreme or divisive content to keep users engaged, which is harmful. Creating ethics boards to oversee these algorithms could help focus on more positive and informative content instead.
  2. Moderation of social media content does not always balance free speech with the need to prevent harmful misinformation. It's important to have clear processes for content removal and to empower users in the moderation process.
  3. Users need better tools to evaluate and discuss opinions without just liking or disliking them. A system that rewards thoughtful, respectful discussions can shape healthier online interactions.

‘I Won’t Treat Them. I’ll Kill Them.’

Common Sense with Bari Weiss • 2026 implied HN points • 18 Feb 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Antisemitism Healthcare Community Media Ethics
  1. Two Australian nurses were caught on camera saying they wouldn't help Israeli patients and even suggested they deserved to die. This shocking behavior raises serious concerns about medical ethics.
  2. Many Muslim community leaders in Australia have publicly defended the nurses' remarks, which has alarmed many people and sparked discussions about antisemitism in society.
  3. The situation highlights a troubling trend where extremist views seem to gain support in certain communities, raising fears about the spread of hate and discrimination.

#102 AI Concepts Building Tomorrow's Billion-Dollar Companies

The Product Channel By Sid Saladi • 20 implied HN points • 23 Feb 25
🕹 Technology AI Product Management Innovation Ethics Development
  1. AI agents are becoming co-creators in product development, changing how teams work together and make decisions.
  2. Specialized AI models tailored to specific tasks are more valuable than general-purpose ones, as seen in successful companies focusing on niche markets.
  3. Product managers need to adapt to AI's rapid pace by embracing new ethical considerations, efficient designs, and continuous learning to drive innovation.

I Was Mistaken When I Said That Giving Unsolicited Advice Is a Mistake

Rob Henderson's Newsletter • 2026 implied HN points • 26 Jan 25
📖 Philosophy Ethics Autonomy Conflict Decision-making
  1. People usually don't like being told what to do. It can create tension, especially when the advice comes from someone they see as equal or below them.
  2. When giving advice, it's important to consider the other person's feelings and autonomy. Balancing love and respect for their independence is key.
  3. Giving unsolicited advice can sometimes be well-intentioned but misunderstood. It's good to be careful when sharing thoughts on someone else's choices.

Bob Menendez, Al Franken, and the presumption of innocence

Popular Information • 11419 implied HN points • 25 Sep 23
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Legal Ethics Corruption Scandal Government
  1. Bob Menendez is currently facing allegations of accepting bribes in exchange for official favors.
  2. Despite the presumption of innocence, Senate Democrats have called for Menendez to resign over the corruption allegations.
  3. In contrast, when faced with similar allegations, Senate Democrats swiftly called for the resignation of Al Franken.