Shaping AI for human flourishing | Medlir Mema

Shaping AI for human flourishing | Medlir Mema

From Defending Ideas by Sutherland Institute

March 17, 2026 · 53 min · Season 1 · Episode 138

About this episode

The episode discusses the ethical implications of AI development and the importance of human values in technology.

Artificial intelligence is advancing rapidly, but who should shape how it develops? On this episode of Defending Ideas, host Nic Dunn speaks with Medlir Mema , director of the AI Ethics and Governance Institute, and Sutherland's Derek Monson , about what it means to build AI that promotes human flourishing. Their conversation explores the ethical questions surrounding AI, the role of civil society and policymakers in guiding its development, and why keeping human values at the center of technological change is essential for a thriving society. Show notes: Utah & AI: Doom or Boom? Utahns embrace AI, parental responsibility and child safety Defending Ideas is a weekly podcast produced by Sutherland Institute. On this show, we are committed to renewing the principles of common sense conservatism, making you a better champion of sound ideas. Visit defendingideas.org.

People in this episode

Host: Nic Dunn

Guest: Medlir Mema

Topics covered

  • artificial intelligence
  • ethics
  • human flourishing
  • civil society
  • policymaking

Keywords

  • AI
  • ethics
  • human values
  • technology
  • civil society
  • policymakers

Mentioned in this episode

Organizations: AI Ethics and Governance Institute, Sutherland Institute

More episodes of Defending Ideas

Explore listener stats, chart rankings, contacts and more on the Defending Ideas podcast page.