David Kwong delivered his latest TED Talk, “Magic and Wonder in the Age of AI” at TED@BCG: Flipside Futures in Paris, France. He asks “Has too much technology robbed us of wonder?” and stunned audiences with a compelling combination of mentalism and artificial intelligence.
This article outlines David Kwong’s background as a cruciverbalist (crossword puzzle constructor) for the New York Times, LA Times, and WSJ. Furthermore, his experience as a Hollywood magic consultant, nationally-renowned illusionist, and TED Talk alumnus will be covered as well. Then, we’ll break down his latest TED Talk, and the science behind his message.
Table of contents
David Kwong’s TED Talk History
David Kwong has spoken at two previous TED events. His first speech, “Two nerdy obsessions meet – and it’s magic” amassed over 1.7 million views on TED.com. His next speech, “The science of illusion”analyzed the psychology and social science behind the performances of magicians.
Since the break-out success of his first two TED Talks, David Kwong has since become a highly-sought-after keynote speaker and corporate entertainer.
David Kwong’s Background
David Kwong is an illusionist, magic consultant, and crossword puzzle constructor. With his special talents, David has entertained and puzzled audiences all over the world. He regularly designs puzzles for the New York Times, Los Angeles Times, and Wall Street Journal. In addition, David was the main magic advisor for the popular movie Now You See Me.
He has also contributed to The Imitation Game, Mission Impossible: Rogue Nation, Ghostbusters: Afterlife, and The Afterparty on Apple TV. His online performance, Inside the Box, received high praise from the New York Times. Furthermore, his live solo show, The Enigmatist, has sold out multiple runs in New York City, Chicago, and Washington, D.C.
David’s style of magic brings joy and challenges to audiences globally. His illusions and puzzles are not overly difficult but just enough to make his audience think!
Keynote Speaking
As a keynote speaker, David Kwong has captivated audiences by explaining and demonstrating “why we can be easily deceived”. During his keynote speeches, David has revealed the secrets behind magic, explaining the science of illusion.
Similarly, in his book Spellbound: Seven Principles of Illusion to Captivate Audiences and Unlock the Secrets of Success he explains how to enhance your abilities to persuade and influence. However, David’s speeches extend beyond magic.
David Kwong’s TED Talk Reception
Magic and Wonder in the Age of AI amassed over 200,000 views on TED.com in its first 3 days, after being published on July 3rd, 2024.
A seasoned entertainer and corporate magician, David Kwong received innumerable praise for his expert performance.
Magic and Wonder in the Age of AI Explained
Using chat GPT, and the help of a volunteer, David Kwong demonstrates how we can still elicit a sense of wonder and magic, even when using artificial intelligence.
Main Idea: What is the Sense of Wonder We Have Lost?
Kwong says that wonder is “questioning what’s possible.” Furthermore, he asks if technology has removed all of the wonder in the world.
For example, there are many great technological wonders at our fingertips every day. Our laptops, computers, and smartphones are the gateways to limitless knowledge. Although, most people don’t even grasp the basic concepts of the circuitry that powers them. What’s more, many people don’t care to find out.
There are many different phenomena and cognitive biases that affect us, such as the Dunning-Kruger effect, confirmation bias, and the bystander effect, that cause us to be uninquisitive, and ultimately uninformed. Some say that technology has hastened and further entrenched these biases.
David Kwong’s TED Talk Conclusion
A sense of wonder is expressed through questions and curiosity. Whether we are able to find our answers quickly through a Google search, or all day at a library, our willingness to ask is what makes us human.
Watch the full TED Talk to see how David Kwong uses AI and mentalism to demonstrate that our sense of wonder is alive and well!
