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Eric Schmidt of Google: Change Creates Opportunity

Eric Schmidt of Google: Change Creates Opportunity

33 segments available

Despite the economic downturn, Schmidt tells students now is the perfect time to be graduating. Additionally, the Google CEO touches on the political and economic environment and the link between ideas and technology. According to Schmidt, the changes we're seeing today, in government and politics, will not be short term changes. Recorded: March 10, 2009

Segments Timeline

1
0:02 - 1:02
1:00 duration161 words

The Best Time to Graduate

Eric Schmidt emphasizes that despite economic challenges, this is the best time to graduate. He believes that change creates opportunities, and the current economic situation will lead to phenomenal prospects for new graduates. Schmidt highlights the importance of the students' quality and commitment, crediting them for the positive environment at Stanford.

"um this is a it's always an exciting time at Stanford it's a particularly exciting time because I think this is by far the best time to be graduating not the worst let me tell you that change happens ..."

2
1:02 - 2:15
1:12 duration186 words

Political and Economic Corrections

Schmidt discusses the political environment, asserting that the American system is correcting itself in response to past excesses. He notes that the changes occurring are not short-term and presents an opportunity to relearn what creates real value in business. He emphasizes the need for building businesses that matter to society.

"you all so that's why I was happy to come and talk what I wanted to do is talk for a few minutes about the political environment the business environment and then and then really talk about ideas and ..."

3
2:15 - 3:32
1:16 duration209 words

Investment and Economic Recovery

In this segment, Schmidt outlines the importance of investment in creating new businesses and jobs. He discusses the potential for economic recovery under President Obama's leadership, comparing it to the Clinton presidency. Schmidt stresses that wealth is created through innovation and investment in technology.

"and I would tell you and hopefully without offending anyone that real value is created by by building real businesses that do new things that matter to everyone at any level of society and that one of..."

4
3:32 - 5:54
2:22 duration383 words

The Need for Transparency

Schmidt highlights the critical role of transparency in the financial sector, arguing that a lack of transparency has led to significant issues. He advocates for a system where data is accessible, allowing for quicker corrections and better decision-making. This transparency is seen as a defense against poor governance and decision-making.

"and then there is an ascendant couple of years a re-election and so forth the worst case scenario is that the incentives and the structure and the political structure that is always in place in every ..."

5
5:54 - 8:10
2:15 duration400 words

Change During Recession

In this segment, Schmidt discusses how recessions force necessary changes and innovations. He emphasizes that real change occurs during tough economic times, highlighting the importance of investing in technology, culture, and people to drive progress.

"now which is causing some real harm so the new idea is that transparency is the best defense against bad decisions and if I can send one sort of non-technical message is that if you can talk about tra..."

6
8:10 - 10:01
1:51 duration340 words

The Rise of Cloud Computing

Schmidt explains the transition to cloud computing and its implications for technology and business. He discusses how cloud computing allows for scalable solutions and the potential for significant advancements in data management and accessibility.

"reform of Institutions so so talking now about technology and how how all this plays in what are some examples of things that could use some change what are some things that have been around for a lon..."

7
10:01 - 12:02
2:01 duration294 words

The Future of Computing

In this segment, Schmidt discusses the implications of Moore's Law and the exponential growth of computing power. He illustrates how advancements in technology will lead to unprecedented capabilities and changes in how we interact with information.

"a thousand more of all of this faster networks more data storage and all of that so what does that mean I mean an example would be that that this this 18-year-old give you know on on his or her high s..."

8
12:02 - 14:27
2:25 duration411 words

Using Data for Public Health

Schmidt shares an example of how Google uses centralized data to detect flu outbreaks, demonstrating the potential of technology to save lives. He emphasizes the importance of leveraging data for public health and the innovative possibilities that arise from cloud computing.

"because Google was built on PCS the dean talked about founding it at Stanford why did Larry and Sergey use PCS because they were cheap at the same time people were using supercomputers and minicompute..."

9
14:22 - 15:10
0:47 duration162 words

The Politician's BS Detector

In a thought-provoking segment, Schmidt proposes a real-time fact-checking tool for political speeches, leveraging mobile devices to verify statements as they are made. This concept aims to enhance accountability in politics and promote fact-based discourse.

"the cycle there are many many examples and you all you all are very smart you can think about what would you do if you could sort of watch and you have to do it with permission of course what people a..."

10
15:10 - 16:34
1:23 duration271 words

The Future of Interactive Learning

Schmidt envisions a new model of education where students use their devices to engage with real-time information during lectures. He suggests that this approach could transform classroom dynamics, encouraging deeper exploration of topics and fostering expertise among students.

"certainty so following that lead when you when you have all that data what could you do with it well my favorite one is is the the politician's BS detector right politician is speaking right we're all..."

11
16:34 - 18:06
1:32 duration275 words

Empowering Voices with Technology

Discussing the proliferation of smartphones, Schmidt highlights how these devices can democratize information access and amplify unheard voices globally. He emphasizes the potential for technology to connect people and facilitate communication across cultures.

"it but that's the kind of stuff that you can do when you move to this new model so we're talking about phones everybody here has a phone I suspect you all have them with you right now many of you have..."

12
18:06 - 19:14
1:08 duration182 words

Revolutionizing Retail with Mobile Tech

Schmidt shares an example of a mobile application that allows shoppers to compare prices in-store with online options. This innovation illustrates the disruptive potential of mobile technology in retail, challenging traditional business models.

"behavior so for purposes of argument I love history so as I'm walking around since it knows where it is why doesn't it just do a search to tell me the history of every building that I pass and I'll le..."

13
19:14 - 20:53
1:38 duration303 words

The Evolution of Educational Resources

In this segment, Schmidt critiques traditional educational methods and advocates for a more dynamic approach using online resources like Wikipedia. He suggests that students could benefit from engaging with current research and experts directly, rather than relying solely on textbooks.

"who've never had a phone before we've never heard their voices we've we don't I don't speak any of their languages uh we don't know what they're going to say to us but they're going to be heard heard ..."

14
20:53 - 22:24
1:30 duration293 words

User-Generated Content and News

Schmidt discusses the shift in how people consume news, emphasizing the rise of user-generated content over traditional media. He highlights the implications for the news industry as audiences increasingly rely on peer recommendations for information.

"every single idea that he's had has come by finding the new idea how could we use that here here at Stanford for example well rather than having a textbook will give you a set of queries this is obvio..."

15
22:24 - 25:14
2:50 duration517 words

Personalized Search and User Data

Concluding his talk, Schmidt explores the future of search technology, emphasizing the importance of personalization based on user data. He argues that understanding user preferences can enhance the search experience, making it more relevant and timely.

"but the explosion of user what is generally known as user to user user content or user generated content is not something that's going away and whether it's Facebook YouTube all the Dig and Twitter se..."

16
25:14 - 26:05
0:51 duration149 words

The Future of Advertising

In this segment, Schmidt discusses the evolution of advertising in the digital age. He argues that targeted and interactive ads can create compelling narratives that resonate with users, contrasting traditional passive advertising methods with the dynamic possibilities of online platforms.

"today um remember what I looked for yesterday and then suggest something I should look for today uh tell me what my friends are looking at again if they are willing to tell me I suspect most would but..."

17
26:05 - 27:01
0:55 duration156 words

The Challenge of Information Quality

Schmidt addresses the issue of misinformation on the internet, coining the term 'binformation' to describe misleading content. He advocates for improved ranking systems and user involvement to enhance the quality of information available online.

"called it publicly the sewer problem um of the internet uh when we worked and I was privileged to work on the very beginnings of the internet way way back as a very young programmer it never occurred ..."

18
27:01 - 28:27
1:26 duration283 words

The Integration of Enterprise and Consumer Computing

Schmidt discusses the merging of enterprise and consumer computing through cloud technology. He emphasizes the need for powerful applications that can be used both at home and work, highlighting the benefits of software as a service in modern business environments.

"involvement to really show you the very best parts of the web so in this model advertising Remains the is likely to remain the primary source of revenue for much of the monetization here of course Goo..."

19
28:27 - 29:56
1:29 duration259 words

The Future of Content Consumption

In this segment, Schmidt explores how content consumption will evolve with technology. He predicts that traditional media will transition online, allowing for new forms of engagement and interaction, such as live streaming concerts and social media integration during movie screenings.

"with this sort of approach so if you imagine that then think about the integration the historic separation between Enterprise and consumer in Computing doesn't make a lot of sense um people are the sa..."

20
29:56 - 31:06
1:10 duration193 words

The Shift in Payment Models

Schmidt outlines the future of payment systems in the digital landscape, discussing micro payments and subscription models. He explains how these new systems will cater to different audience sizes and content types, enabling more flexible monetization strategies.

"magazine that seems like an odd I'm not talking about magazines and the internet are the same thing but there's a reason why magazines work really well they're beautiful they're the right size you can..."

21
31:06 - 32:14
1:07 duration202 words

Philanthropy in the Digital Age

Schmidt highlights the potential for technology to enhance philanthropic efforts. He envisions platforms that combine web experiences with field operations to address social issues more effectively, leveraging data and user engagement.

"pretty much all online over a long enough period of time because of costs primarily so what does this mean what's the new thing you can do well the most obvious one is you can have live concerts strea..."

22
32:14 - 34:04
1:50 duration319 words

Overcoming Resistance to Innovation

In this segment, Schmidt discusses the challenges of adopting new technologies, particularly the resistance from established incumbents. He emphasizes the importance of viewing current crises as opportunities for innovation and change.

"so what happens then to content well if you have something where your audience is going to be two billion you're going to use advertising if you have something where your audience is going to be 2 mil..."

23
34:04 - 37:12
3:08 duration516 words

Optimism Amidst Challenges

Schmidt concludes with a message of optimism regarding innovation and the future. He reflects on the resilience of American culture and its capacity for creativity and progress, encouraging a positive outlook despite current challenges.

"hard I'll finish up finish up in a sec why is this so very hard well almost everything I've talked about there's an incumbent who's really struggling now I as a young scientist I used to think well yo..."

24
37:35 - 38:13
0:38 duration81 words

The Dual Nature of Technology

Addressing concerns about technology's potential for misuse, Schmidt reassures that the decentralized nature of networks makes it unlikely for technology to be used for evil purposes. He discusses the importance of responsible information sharing and the societal adjustments that will follow any significant misuse.

"with that thank you very much we have a question thank you um you spoke about your uh naivity at the start of the internet the worldwide web and uh many of the physicists who created nuclear science w..."

25
38:13 - 39:30
1:16 duration261 words

Personalization vs. Serendipity

In this segment, Schmidt explores the balance between personalized content and the element of surprise in user experiences. He discusses how Google aims to provide both targeted results and opportunities for serendipitous discovery, allowing users to choose their preferred experience.

"now um so they're cheap you can get a new one real quick get a new one but I'm just wondering you know so how do you feel about the fact that you could be creating you know a super weapon of control a..."

26
39:30 - 40:56
1:26 duration273 words

The Power of Search Queries

Schmidt reflects on the significance of search queries as indicators of societal behavior and trends. He emphasizes the need for caution in using this data to profile individuals, highlighting the ethical considerations surrounding privacy and the responsible use of information.

"the net is decentralized more questions yes sir you talked a lot today about uh the power of using a person's past Behavior or past expressed interest in uh providing more precise content uh results u..."

27
40:56 - 42:01
1:05 duration189 words

The Role of Technology in Social Change

Schmidt argues that technology can empower citizens to demand accountability from their governments. He cites examples of how increased transparency through technology can lead to better governance and societal pressure for change, reinforcing the idea that technology is a tool for political engagement.

"is I think what you're really getting at ultimately the products that I'm talking about will have a serend deputy section and a highly targeted section to allow you to make the choice of do I want to ..."

28
42:01 - 43:35
1:34 duration313 words

Technology and Direct Democracy

In this segment, Schmidt discusses the potential for the internet to facilitate more direct forms of democracy. He suggests that while direct elections via the internet may be unlikely, increased transparency in government processes could enhance citizen involvement and oversight.

"hi I'm uh curious what you view as the significance of a search query in itself um what it can tell you about the world around us is it predictive of behavior is there some great social meaning or doe..."

29
46:02 - 46:50
0:48 duration138 words

Lessons from Iceland's Financial Crisis

Eric Schmidt discusses the financial crisis in Iceland, emphasizing the importance of regulatory transparency and citizen involvement in governance. He argues that technology can empower citizens to demand accountability from their leaders, highlighting the need for proactive engagement to prevent economic disasters.

"let's use the example of Iceland uh which is a a Sor beautiful place with a sari banking system at the point when Iceland's B stock market was three quarters valued with three banks that was too late ..."

30
46:50 - 48:38
1:48 duration311 words

The Role of Technology in Democracy

In this segment, Schmidt explores the potential for the internet to enhance democratic processes. He suggests that while direct online voting may be unlikely, increased transparency in government operations could lead to more informed citizen participation, advocating for public access to legislative changes and government meetings.

"so I'm not arguing that technology solves these problems because I view these problems as fundamentally political what I am arguing is that technology allows the citizens who are ultimately the victim..."

31
48:38 - 50:49
2:10 duration431 words

Google's Commitment to Clean Energy

Schmidt outlines Google's initiatives in the clean tech sector, discussing the company's investments in renewable energy and smart grid technologies. He emphasizes the importance of responsible energy consumption and the potential for green energy to become a profitable business, countering the stigma associated with it.

"right now another example is that much of the government operates publicly but without a lot of access because people don't know that they have to go to the the um conference room so another thing tha..."

32
50:49 - 53:35
2:46 duration574 words

The Shift from Scarcity to Abundance in Media

In this insightful discussion, Schmidt addresses the transformation of media in the digital age. He argues that traditional media models based on scarcity must adapt to the internet's principle of abundance, suggesting that media companies need to innovate their business strategies to thrive in a landscape where information is freely accessible.

"Google's case that's the setup for what Google is doing which is around the smart grid and simple answer there is that if you look at power distribution the most expensive power is the peak power whic..."

33
53:35 - 55:27
1:51 duration377 words

Google's Advertising Model Explained

Schmidt explains how Google's advertising model supports its free services, detailing the effectiveness of targeted ads and the auction-based pricing system. He highlights the lucrative nature of this model and how it adapts to the growing online market, providing insights into the financial mechanics behind Google's success.

"model last question U thank you very much for your talk sure uh much of what you said strikes me is talking about kind of the services that Google provides and I think a lot of the questions are aroun..."