The Ethics of Empowerment: How AI Can Make Us Stronger with Vivienne Ming
May 8, 2025
In an era of rapid workplace transformation, human connection remains the cornerstone of effective leadership and organizational success.
In this episode of Humanity at Scale, host Bruce Temkin sits down with Dr. Vivienne Ming, a visionary neuroscientist and AI pioneer, to explore how technology can elevate, not replace, human potential. Sharing her inspiring journey from homelessness to innovation leadership, Ming unpacks how purpose, ethical design, and a deep understanding of human complexity should shape AI development. From the “Better After Use” principle to rethinking leadership and productivity, this conversation is packed with insights for anyone aiming to build more human-centric organizations and unlock AI’s role as a catalyst for creativity, compassion, and real-world impact.
In an era of rapid workplace transformation, human connection remains the cornerstone of effective leadership and organizational success.
In this episode of Humanity at Scale, host Bruce Temkin sits down with Dr. Vivienne Ming, a visionary neuroscientist and AI pioneer, to explore how technology can elevate, not replace, human potential. Sharing her inspiring journey from homelessness to innovation leadership, Ming unpacks how purpose, ethical design, and a deep understanding of human complexity should shape AI development. From the “Better After Use” principle to rethinking leadership and productivity, this conversation is packed with insights for anyone aiming to build more human-centric organizations and unlock AI’s role as a catalyst for creativity, compassion, and real-world impact.
What you will learn:
- How to transform personal struggles into purpose-driven innovation
- The "Better After Use" principle to evaluate how technology enhances human capability
- Why designing AI systems requires understanding the full human ecology
- How to approach AI implementation for cost-cutting and enhancing human creativity
- The power of imperfect leadership and why self-awareness matters
- Why purpose is the single biggest predictor of productivity in large organizations
- How to develop compensatory strategies for personal weaknesses
- The importance of asking whether we're solving the right problems
- Why understanding human complexity should drive technology development
- How to ensure AI amplifies human potential instead of replacing human capabilities
Dr. Vivienne Ming is a theoretical neuroscientist, entrepreneur, and author, frequently featured in The New York Times, The Atlantic, and The Financial Times. She co-founded Socos Labs, an independent institute exploring human potential through science and technology. A former UC Berkeley visiting scholar, Vivienne invented AI systems for healthcare, mental health, and refugee support. She serves on multiple boards and speaks globally on inclusive innovation while enjoying life as a wife and mother of two.
Episode Resources:
- Dr. Vivienne Ming on LinkedIn
- Dionysus Digital Health Website
- Talent Harbour Website
- Bruce Temkin on LinkedIn