Is AI Really Changing the World?

T4EU lanches second podcast episode

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Artificial intelligence (AI) has become one of the most transformative and debated technologies of our time. But how is it truly reshaping society, and what challenges lie ahead? The Transform4Europe Alliance delves into these pressing questions in the second episode of its Outreach podcast, titled “Is AI Really Changing the World?”.

This thought-provoking episode features experts Francesco Miele and William Hasselberger who explore the risks, opportunities, and ethics of AI. Moderated by Elisabetta de Giorgi, the discussion offers deep insights into how AI is impacting employment, societal structures, and our very understanding of humanity.

The Philosophical Challenges of AI

“One of the most philosophically interesting features of AI is that debates about AI end up being debates, at the same time, about human beings,” says William Hasselberger, Director of the Digital Ethics Lab and Associate Professor at the Institute for Political Studies at Universidade Católica Portuguesa. He explains that while AI is designed to mimic human tasks and intelligence, its potential to replicate the broad, adaptable intelligence of a human adult raises unsettling questions.

Hasselberger underscores the ethical concerns of creating machines that could rival human cognitive capabilities. He notes that AI’s evolution challenges fundamental notions of autonomy, creativity, and the uniqueness of human intelligence.

The Societal Impacts of AI

Francesco Miele, Assistant Professor at the Department of Political and Social Sciences at the University of Trieste, brings a historical perspective to the discussion, reminding us that AI is not a new concept—it has been around since the 1950s. However, the rapid advancements in AI today are exacerbating existing societal issues.

From automation threatening jobs to the deepening of social inequalities, Miele highlights the complex trade-offs that AI brings. “AI is both an opportunity and a risk,” he notes, urging careful consideration of its deployment to ensure equitable outcomes for all.

A Conversation for Everyone

Moderated by Elisabetta de Giorgi, Associate Professor at the University of Trieste, this episode invites listeners to explore the profound implications of AI on our lives and futures. As the guests discuss both opportunities and challenges, they emphasize the importance of ethical considerations and informed decision-making in guiding AI’s development.

Listen to the full episode here: