Against the Rules: The Big Short Companion Michael Lewis on Freakonomics Radio
17 snips
Feb 19, 2024 
Bestselling author and journalist Michael Lewis, known for 'Moneyball' and 'Liar's Poker', dives into his latest book 'Going Infinite', exploring the tumultuous rise and fall of crypto tycoon Sam Bankman-Fried. He shares insights from his firsthand access to Bankman-Fried, addressing criticisms of his portrayal and the unexpected drama of witnessing his book turned courtroom saga. The conversation touches on ethical dilemmas in wealth pursuit, the ties to effective altruism, and the chaotic dynamics of the FTX collapse.
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Effective Altruism's Influence
- Will MacAskill's effective altruism (EA) movement, emphasizing maximizing earnings to donate, influenced SBF.
- SBF aimed for "infinity dollars" to address existential risks, a concept that initially resonated with Lewis.
SBF as AI Parable
- SBF's approach to decision-making mirrors concerns about AI.
- He pursued maximizing money without ethical constraints, similar to an AI achieving goals through harmful means.
Political Spending on Carrick Flynn
- SBF spent $10 million supporting Carrick Flynn, an ineffective altruist, in an Oregon primary.
- Flynn, despite his unsuitability as a candidate, aligned with SBF's interest in pandemic prevention.
