In a candid and thought-provoking episode of the People by WTF podcast, Zerodha co-founder Nikhil Kamath sat down with Microsoft co-founder Bill Gates for a wide-ranging discussion that spanned artificial intelligence, the future of labor, and the evolving role of capitalism. Kamath's honest questions and Gates' insightful responses offered a rare look into how two billionaires view a world on the brink of technological transformation.
Kamath's AI Curiosity Surprises Gates
At one point in the conversation, Kamath expressed concern over missing out on the ongoing AI revolution. “I'm losing out on the whole AI world,” he admitted. “So I want to go take a job somewhere in the US, or an internship—unpaid. Where would you suggest it? How do I go about being in the forefront of that world, just in terms of learning the implications—not so much the development?”
Gates, amused yet thoughtful, responded with encouragement and a suggestion. “You know, with all your business experience, maybe the OpenAI guys would have some role where you would be super valuable to them, and you'd be getting that exposure. I mean, that's the most intense—those guys… yeah, it's wild.” He added, “They’re very good guys. Boy, are they surfing the wave.”
AI's Impact on Scarcity and Human Purpose
Throughout the episode, Gates repeatedly emphasized how artificial intelligence could reshape society by removing historical limitations. “We’ve always had a shortage—doctors, teachers, people to work in factories… those shortages won’t exist,” he said, pointing out that AI would redefine how people work and live. “It’s a pretty profound change that will free up a lot of time. You can retire early. You can work shorter work weeks.”
Kamath raised a deeper question: “In the world of tomorrow, 10 years from now, from a very capitalistic lens—is a huge population a boon or a bane?” In response, Gates explained that as AI evolves, many traditional economic structures may no longer apply. “Let’s say 20 years from now, AI will have changed things enough that... this pure capitalistic framework probably won’t explain much.”
Healthcare and the Role of AI in Developing Nations
Gates used healthcare as a critical example of how AI could bridge gaps. “India has more doctors than Africa, but still not nearly as many as it should. AI will come in and provide medical IQ, and there won’t be a shortage,” he said. According to Gates, machines could soon offer intelligence and decision-making that rival human professionals, including doctors.
He reflected on how AI's disruption challenges his own background. “Markets are about scarce resources… I find myself trying to understand that future world.” Gates believes this shift will require “almost a philosophical rethink” about time, value, and social structure.
Kamath noted that this AI-driven transformation could bring about a new kind of social hierarchy—one not based on work or wealth. Gates agreed, saying the idea of complete equality, as imagined in communism, is “pretty unnatural behaviour for humans.”
Sharing a bit of personal insight, Gates added, “If you want to work hard and not fool yourself, you better be pretty hard on yourself.”
The discussion between Kamath and Gates provided more than just predictions. It reflected the importance of staying curious and adaptable in a world undergoing rapid change. As Gates pointed out, “My kids—and certainly my grandkids—a lot of their life will be in that very changed world.”
Kamath's AI Curiosity Surprises Gates
At one point in the conversation, Kamath expressed concern over missing out on the ongoing AI revolution. “I'm losing out on the whole AI world,” he admitted. “So I want to go take a job somewhere in the US, or an internship—unpaid. Where would you suggest it? How do I go about being in the forefront of that world, just in terms of learning the implications—not so much the development?”
Gates, amused yet thoughtful, responded with encouragement and a suggestion. “You know, with all your business experience, maybe the OpenAI guys would have some role where you would be super valuable to them, and you'd be getting that exposure. I mean, that's the most intense—those guys… yeah, it's wild.” He added, “They’re very good guys. Boy, are they surfing the wave.”
AI's Impact on Scarcity and Human Purpose
Throughout the episode, Gates repeatedly emphasized how artificial intelligence could reshape society by removing historical limitations. “We’ve always had a shortage—doctors, teachers, people to work in factories… those shortages won’t exist,” he said, pointing out that AI would redefine how people work and live. “It’s a pretty profound change that will free up a lot of time. You can retire early. You can work shorter work weeks.”
Kamath raised a deeper question: “In the world of tomorrow, 10 years from now, from a very capitalistic lens—is a huge population a boon or a bane?” In response, Gates explained that as AI evolves, many traditional economic structures may no longer apply. “Let’s say 20 years from now, AI will have changed things enough that... this pure capitalistic framework probably won’t explain much.”
Healthcare and the Role of AI in Developing Nations
Gates used healthcare as a critical example of how AI could bridge gaps. “India has more doctors than Africa, but still not nearly as many as it should. AI will come in and provide medical IQ, and there won’t be a shortage,” he said. According to Gates, machines could soon offer intelligence and decision-making that rival human professionals, including doctors.
He reflected on how AI's disruption challenges his own background. “Markets are about scarce resources… I find myself trying to understand that future world.” Gates believes this shift will require “almost a philosophical rethink” about time, value, and social structure.
Kamath noted that this AI-driven transformation could bring about a new kind of social hierarchy—one not based on work or wealth. Gates agreed, saying the idea of complete equality, as imagined in communism, is “pretty unnatural behaviour for humans.”
Sharing a bit of personal insight, Gates added, “If you want to work hard and not fool yourself, you better be pretty hard on yourself.”
The discussion between Kamath and Gates provided more than just predictions. It reflected the importance of staying curious and adaptable in a world undergoing rapid change. As Gates pointed out, “My kids—and certainly my grandkids—a lot of their life will be in that very changed world.”
You may also like
Brit tourist in horror death plunge from Segovia aqueduct in Spain
LIC Jeevan Shiromani Plan: Pay Premiums for Just 4 Years and Secure ₹1 Crore – Know Full Details
South Korea: Democratic Party to pick presidential candidate via party vote, public poll
Delhi: Two men held for motorcycle theft, police recover stolen bikes
Sheffield United and Plymouth players brawl in tunnel after Chris Wilder loses his cool
