Pub Scholars - Artificial Intelligence: Blessing or Curse?

December Pub Scholars Topic - Artificial Intelligence: Blessing or Curse?

This talk provides an up-to-date review of the extraordinary characteristics of this new human capability. Questions abound. Will generative languages like ChatGPT foster greater productivity, deeper insights, or chaos? How will the growing availability of AI technologies impact democratic governance, invite repressive practices, or undermine the rule of law? Will AI open up technology opportunities previously unavailable to liberal arts graduates? Will new autonomous, AI-directed weapon systems distort battlefield outcomes? Which jobs are most susceptible to be replaced by AI interfaces? What are the latest statistics on the actual productivity advantages of AI in the workplace? Does AI have the potential to develop super intelligence which can threaten civilization? Will competing chatbots cause chaotic versions of reality through misinformation? By the time this session is presented, there will be countless new questions. The speaker will bring up all the latest developments, challenges, and opportunities.

Speaker Bio: Stephen Ruth is a retired Professor of Public Policy from George Mason University, and former director of the International Center for Applied Studies in Information Technology. His research interests are focused on the problems of policy and strategic planning associated with leveraging the use of Information and Communications Technology in large organizations, with particular emphasis on Telework, Green IT, and the Return on Investment for E-Learning. He has received a Distinguished Professor award at George Mason University and was a Virginia Outstanding Professor honoree. Dr. Ruth received his BS from the U.S. Naval Academy and MS from the Navy Postgraduate School, and served twenty- three years in the Navy, retiring with the rank of Captain. His PhD is from the Wharton School, University of Pennsylvania. He is author or co-author of over one hundred published articles and four books.

Pub Scholars: an exciting new event in Fairfax City that brings George Mason faculty and other thought-leaders into Fairfax’s establishments to share their expertise on cutting-edge topics and technologies with our community. This event is an opportunity to learn about the latest thinking and innovations in technology, science, and business. Come ponder the greatest questions of the universe over your beverage of choice. Nibbles will be provided. This event is open to all audiences and interested participants.

This lecture is made possible by George Mason University’s Mason Speakers. For further information contact https://masonspeakers.gmu.edu/ or call 703-993-8846.