As large investments are being poured into artificial intelligence technology, tech companies paint a picture of a near future where AI agents do most work for you – but is that realistic? What even is an AI agent and how does it differ from assistants like ChatGPT? With companies claiming that these technologies can become autonomous workers able to handle complex tasks independently, it's crucial to understand the difference between real capability versus a marketing narrative. As AI emerges in different forms and creates new dependencies across all industries and spheres, a reality check on the playbook scripts designed by the tech industry is crucial. Which thoughtful approaches towards automation can we propose that prioritize human and environmental wellbeing? Is it worth imagining AI integrations in workspaces that balance innovation with responsibility? Paradigms is a podcast produced by Leitmotiv – an independent think tank focused on operationalizing values in our digital future. Join the conversation by following us on LinkedIn, Bluesky or Instagram, stay on the pulse of the latest digital developments and learn everything about how we’re shaping a values-centered digital future that is ours. Hosted by Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.

What happens when a tech giant becomes a media monopoly? As Meta faces scrutiny over its acquisitions of Instagram and WhatsApp, hosts Zuzana Ľudviková and Max Schulze explore Meta's ongoing antitrust trial with the US Federal Trade Commission and examine Meta's identity and inner workings – as a media conglomerate and a large-scale attention factory fueled by users' free labor of watching and scrolling. Without proper regulations, the digital media marketplace risks becoming an unregulated Wild West where user interests take a backseat to corporate greed, influencing policymaking in both the United States and Europe. How can we develop effective regulation that does not stifle innovation but ensures that technology truly serves democratic societies? Tune in as software engineer and policy expert Max Schulze outlines a digital media landscape that prioritizes user rights and equitable practices. Through effective policymaking, there is a way for technology to first and foremost generate positive change – then profit. Paradigms is a newly launched podcast produced by Leitmotiv – an independent think tank focused on operationalizing values in our digital future. Hosted by Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.