Panel will explore the philosophy of artificial intelligence


A panel of experts on the philosophy of artificial intelligence will discuss the challenges of AI and other data-driven technologies at discussion March 1 in the Knight Library Browsing Room.

Three University of Oregon humanities scholars — Ramón Alvarado, Mattie Burkert and Colin Koopman — will talk through the philosophy of AI, computation, digital humanities, information politics and data ethics. The talk, which begins at 3 p.m., is presented by the Oregon Humanities Center.

The event will be livestreamed, and registration is required for in-person attendance. 

Alvarado is an assistant professor of philosophy and the department’s data ethics coordinator as well as the author of “Simulating Science: Computer Simulations as Scientific Instruments.” Burkert is an associate professor of English, director of the minor in digital humanities, the interim director of the New Media and Culture Certificate, and the principal investigator and project director for the London Stage Database. Koopman is a professor of philosophy, author of “How We Became Our Data: A Genealogy of the Informational Person,” and the project lead of the Our Data, Our Selves web project.

Artificial intelligence applies computer science and robust datasets to problem-solving, aided by machine learning and deep learning. The applications for the technology are growing, but not without controversy over issues such as accuracy, misinformation and ethics.

Panel members will address how the technology affects such issues as truth, trust and democracy, safety and security, and privacy, civil rights and civil liberties.

—Top photo: Three University of Oregon humanities scholars Ramón Alvarado, Mattie Burkert and Colin Koopman.


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