3,096 tacks
Our tech overlords are planning for conscious AI to conquer the cosmos. What could go wrong? | Eduardo Porter
Tech elites, driven by a belief in transcending humanity through AI, are pursuing a “transhuman” future. This vision, fuelled by a desire for immortality and cosmic power, involves merging human consciousness with AI and potentially uploading it to digital substrates. While seemingly fantastical, this belief system, rooted in effective altruism and longtermism, justifies prioritising AI development over present-day human needs.
Quiz: Can you identify Aussie TV shows from a single frame?
Think you're top of the box when it comes to Australian TV shows? Prove it! We're going to give you a single frame from an Australian TV show, plus a small hint, because we're very nice. All you have to do is correctly identify which TV show the frame is from.
Screentime swaps: how to quit doomscrolling without quitting your phone
Hannah Coates argues that digital wellbeing depends less on screen time itself than on purpose and control. Compulsive doomscrolling can leave users disengaged and dissatisfied, while intentional activities may support wellbeing. Drawing on expert advice, Coates recommends replacing passive scrolling with active screen use, such as gaming for pleasure, word puzzles, meaningful social connection, digital creativity and structured learning. The key distinction is whether technology helps users play, connect, create and learn, or simply consumes their attention.
AI ‘art’ is boring, soulless theft – and when I see it as an artist I see red | Jess Harwood
Artist Jess Harwood argues that generative AI cannot create meaningful art because it lacks human experience, intention and struggle. Inspired by a Split Enz concert, she contrasts the emotional power of human-made music with AI-generated images, writing and songs, which she views as derivative and environmentally damaging. For Harwood, art is inseparable from the artist’s process and humanity’s need to express lived experience: evidence that we existed, felt deeply and made meaning.
Why this photo has been terrifying the internet for years
The Backrooms began as an unsettling image of an empty, yellow, fluorescent-lit room posted online in 2019, inspiring collaborative horror fiction, games and videos. Its appeal lies in its ambiguity: familiar spaces made frighteningly unfamiliar. YouTube filmmaker Kane Parsons expanded the concept through popular found-footage shorts and now directs A24’s feature adaptation. Rather than relying on obvious monsters, the film preserves the Backrooms’ psychological dread, mystery and open-ended possibilities.
'Losing a generation': Why some countries are moving fast on AI in schools
The article describes the increasing adoption of artificial intelligence (AI) in Asian schools. Some countries, like China, are making AI education compulsory, while others, like Japan, are taking a more cautious approach. The article also highlights the potential risks of AI in education, such as undermining critical thinking and creativity.
This model is not a real person: how AI is shaking up fashion – video
From digital twins to models ‘sculpted’ by programmers, generative AI has been popping up all over the fashion industry. When an Australian e-commerce retailer started using AI-generated models to sell products, lifestyle editor Alyx Gorman had to see if the garments were more than mere pixels.
Should politicians be using AI-generated images?
The use of AI-generated images in Australian politics is raising questions about authenticity and the impact on public trust. While AI can be a quick and easy way to create content, poorly executed images can damage a politician’s reputation and raise concerns about the use of local talent. Although guidelines exist for political campaigns, there are no regulations for everyday use, leaving the public to question the motives behind AI-generated content.
The men offering an alternative to 'manosphere' influencers
The manosphere, a collection of online communities promoting harmful masculine ideals, is a growing concern. While some men on social media, like Luke Bateman and Caleb Ferdinand, are using their platforms to promote positive values and challenge these harmful narratives, experts emphasise the importance of relatable role models beyond social media. They argue that a combination of online content and real-life connections is crucial in combating the manosphere’s influence on young men.
Australian students record worst tech literacy results on record
Australian students’ digital literacy has reached a new low, with only 37% of year 10 students and 50% of year 6 students deemed proficient. Despite increased access to technology, students lack the skills to effectively use it, including identifying misinformation and utilising AI responsibly. The decline in proficiency is concerning, especially given the increasing reliance on technology in education and the workplace.
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