The prominent AI researcher explores the societal impact of artificial intelligence and outlines his vision for a future in which AI upholds human rights, dignity, and fairness
03 Jan 2025
Will artificial intelligence (AI) be good for society or bad for society? What kind of artificial intelligence (AI) should we want? These are among the most pressing questions of our time, and they’re at the very heart of Gary Marcus’s talk.
The prominent AI researcher and cognitive scientist examines the societal implications of AI, highlighting various issues plaguing popular generative AI tools today along with myriad risks posed by unchecked generative AI systems. He calls the kind of AI we have today “morally and technically inadequate” and “rough draft AI”, urging the need to reshape the development of AI. In so doing, he warns against the dangers of continuing along the path of surveillance capitalism, where AI technologies prioritize profit over people.
Mr. Marcus goes on to draw comparisons to the public’s response to challenges surrounding climate change and describes how big tech companies approach and devise these technologies. Importantly, he stresses the urgency for collective action and shares recommendations for policy-makers and society. Ultimately, he outlines his vision for an AI that upholds human rights and dignity – an AI that works for us all.
ESET’s commitment to promoting scientific innovation and progress is seen in its ongoing efforts to foster a deep appreciation for science, celebrate the power of groundbreaking research, and connect with leading thinkers in technology and science. ESET recently partnered with Starmus, the global science communication festival, and brought its 7th edition to Bratislava, Slovakia, in May 2024.
The festival featured a number of thought-provoking perspectives from some of the planet’s foremost thinkers. You can now relive the experience from the comfort of your home and get a taste of how the power of technology is being harnessed to tackle some of the most pressing challenges facing the world today.
