The Outside Context

In episode 18, we explore the future of space, examine space-based solar power, and look at the UK’s role in space innovation with Mark Garnier MP. Discover how space is the next frontier for human progress and what it means for policy, technology, and inspiration.
Key Topics
Space as the next iteration of human progress
Space-based solar power and its potential
UK government and policy on space
Investment and finance in space industry
Inspiration and education in space exploration
Soundbites “Space is the next iteration of human progress.” “Exploring space is the next step in human exploration.” “A holistic strategy is essential for UK’s space leadership.”
Chapters 
00:00 - Introduction to Space Politics and Policy 
04:26 - A Philosophical Perspective on Space 
09:18 - Space-Based Solar Power: A Resource for the Future 
23:09 - Investment and Policy in Space Infrastructure 
35:01 - Inspiration and the Future of Space Careers 
44:22 - The Economic and Existential Future of Humanity in Space
Note: at the time of recording, space policy sat within the Department for Science, Innovation and Technology. This has since moved into the Department for Business and Trade.
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© 2024 The Outside Context. All rights reserved.

In this conversation, Jannah Patchay and Simran Singh discuss the evolving landscape of AI regulation, focusing on the risks, governance frameworks and challenges posed by accountability and tech sovereignty. Simran shares her journey into the field of AI and regulation, highlighting the importance of understanding AI-related risks, including black swan events and the complexities of accountability in AI systems. They explore the implications of concentration risks in technology and the need for international cooperation to address regulatory fragmentation. The discussion culminates in a vision for future governance frameworks that prioritise ethical considerations and user-centered design.
Takeaways
Simran's journey into AI regulation began at the UK Financial Conduct Authority  in 2020.
AI risks are complex and often analysed locally, but they materialise systemically.
Policymakers should consider fragmentation as a significant risk in AI governance.
Black swan events in AI can lead to catastrophic consequences, if not addressed.
AI can be a tool for detecting and managing risks effectively.
Accountability in AI is shifting from prediction to preparation for failures.
Sovereignty in AI should not lead to isolation but rather to shared insights.
Regulatory frameworks must evolve to address the complexities of AI.
User-centered design is crucial in AI governance to ensure ethical outcomes.
No governance framework will be perfect from the start; it must adapt over time.
Chapters
00:00 - Journey into AI and Regulation
05:08 - Understanding AI Risks and Governance
10:00 - Black Swan Events and Regulatory Challenges
15:13 - Accountability in AI Systems
19:51 - Tech Sovereignty and Concentration Risks
25:10 - Regulatory Fragmentation and International Cooperation
29:49 - Future Governance Frameworks for AI
Further Resources:
https://www.theguardian.com/news/2026/jun/18/can-ecosystems-malfunction
https://www.amazon.co.uk/Future-Humanity-Terraforming-Interstellar-Immortality/dp/0241304849
https://www.amazon.co.uk/Seeds-Time-J-Wyndham/dp/B000GRK03E
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Sponsored by Unblocked & Markets Evolution
© 2024 The Outside Context. All rights reserved.

In Episode 16 of The Outside Context, Kenneth Kou, Head of Venture Lab at Mercy Corps Ventures shares his journey from mathematics to impact investing, exploring how financial inclusion, blockchain technology, and innovative solutions can build a more inclusive and resilient global economy. Jannah Patchay and Elise Soucie Watts ask Ken all about the challenges of financial exclusion, the potential of crypto for good, and the future of societal development.
Key Takeaways
Ken Kou's impact journey from mathematics to social finance
The role of crypto and blockchain in financial inclusion
Challenges and opportunities in emerging markets' financial systems
Chapters
01:07 - Ken Kou's Impact-Oriented Career Path
02:02 - The Thread of Financial Inclusion
03:38 - Mercy Corps Ventures and Humanitarian Investment
05:11 - Venture Capital in Humanitarian and Emerging Markets
08:14 - Persisting Challenges of Financial Exclusion
10:00 - Technical vs Policy Failures in Financial Inclusion
12:10 - Economic Barriers to Private Sector Investment
15:13 - Crypto's Role in Financial Inclusion and Policy
16:51 - Stablecoins and Cross-Border Transfers
19:25 - Cryptocurrency's Potential in Humanitarian Aid and Trade Finance
21:54 - Crypto for Good Fund and Pilot Programs
23:42 - Learnings from Crypto Pilot Projects
28:13 - Trust and Adoption Challenges in Financial Tech
29:30 - Crypto and Climate Resilience Applications
31:25 - Societal Development and Education in Tech Adoption
33:14 - Long-term Impact of Technology on Humanity
35:27 - The Vision of an Inclusive Society
36:37 - Future of Open Borders and Global Mobility
 
Resources
Mercy Corps Ventures

Connect with Us:
Follow The Outside Context on Spotify, Apple Podcasts or wherever you get your podcasts
Follow Elise Soucie Watts and Jannah Patchay for more insights into the future of technology, civilisation & digital finance
Message us and tell us what you think of this episode, or share your ideas for future episodes - we’d love to hear from you!
Sponsored by Unblocked & Markets Evolution
© 2024 The Outside Context. All rights reserved.

In episode 15 of The Outside Context, co-hosts Jannah Patchay and Elise Soucie Watts welcome Melanie Garson, an Associate Professor in International Security & Conflict Resolution at UCL as well as the Founder of GeopolitIQ, to discuss the intersection of technology and geopolitics. They explore the evolving landscape of tech geopolitics, the challenges of digital sovereignty, and the implications of cyber resilience in modern defence. The conversation dives into the future of warfare, the role of tech companies as geopolitical actors, and the importance of fostering resilience in individuals as we navigate an uncertain technological future.

Key Takeaways
Tech and geopolitics are increasingly intertwined, with technology shaping global power dynamics.
Digital sovereignty poses significant challenges in a globalised world.
Cybersecurity requires collaboration and information sharing among nations.
The rise of AI and autonomous systems is transforming the defence landscape.
Countries must prioritise their digital infrastructure to ensure national security.
Tech companies are gaining power and influence in international relations.
The future of warfare includes information warfare and cyber-attacks.
Building resilience in individuals is crucial for navigating technological advancements.
Optimism exists for the future IF we manage technology responsibly.
 
Chapters
00:00 - Welcoming Melanie Garson
04:01 -Understanding Tech Geopolitics
10:46 - Digital Sovereignty and its Challenges
17:41 - The Evolving Cyber Landscape
22:30 - The Future of Warfare - and Information Warfare
28:45 - Tech Powers and Geopolitical Dynamics
35.12 - Optimism for the Future of Technology

Connect with Us:
Follow The Outside Context on Spotify, Apple Podcasts or wherever you get your podcasts
Follow Elise Soucie Watts and Jannah Patchay for more insights into the future of technology, civilisation & digital finance
Message us and tell us what you think of this episode, or share your ideas for future episodes - we’d love to hear from you!
Sponsored by Unblocked & Markets Evolution
© 2024 The Outside Context. All rights reserved.

In Episode 14 of The Outside Context Elliot Hentov, chief macro policy strategist at State Street Investment Management, discusses the intersection of AI and macroeconomics. He explores the current state of AI's impact on productivity, investment trends, and the implications for inflation and economic growth. The conversation also shifts into the geopolitical competition surrounding AI dominance, particularly between the US and China, and concludes with reflections on future challenges and opportunities presented by AI.
 
Key Takeaways:
The impact of AI on productivity is still being assessed.
Investment in AI has surged significantly in recent years.
AI has the potential to be deflationary by lowering costs.
The geopolitical race for AI dominance is ongoing and complex.
Countries that innovate in AI will likely benefit economically.
The labour market is experiencing mixed effects from AI adoption.
Increased longevity due to AI advancements poses challenges for society.
The future of AI investment may lead to both successes and failures.

Chapters:
00:00 - Introduction to AI and Macro Economics
03:11 - The Current State of AI and Productivity
05:44 - Sectoral Impacts of AI on Employment
08:51 - Investment Trends in AI
12:04 - Macroeconomic Implications of AI Investment
14:53 - Geopolitical Competition in AI
17:52 - Future Challenges and Opportunities with AI

Connect with Us:
Follow The Outside Context on Spotify, Apple Podcasts or wherever you get your podcasts
Follow Elise Soucie Watts and Jannah Patchay for more insights into the future of technology, civilisation & digital finance
Message us and tell us what you think of this episode, or share your ideas for future episodes - we’d love to hear from you!
Sponsored by Unblocked & Markets Evolution
© 2024 The Outside Context. All rights reserved.