Engaging Minds: A National Conference on AI Ethics at The University of Scranton
The University of Scranton is set to become a hub of knowledge and innovation as it hosts a three-day national interdisciplinary conference titled “Confronting the Ethics of Artificial Intelligence.” Scheduled from April 16 to April 18, this event will gather educators, students, and professionals from diverse fields to delve into the implications of rapidly advancing artificial intelligence technologies.
Conference Details and Registration
The conference is designed to provide a comprehensive exploration of AI’s ethical dimensions, with registration now open at a cost ranging from $50 to $150. This fee grants attendees unlimited access to panels and workshops throughout the event, along with invitations to a Thursday night mixer and a Friday night dinner—a perfect opportunity for networking and building connections.
The event is proudly sponsored by the Diocese of Scranton and Geisinger, underscoring a collaborative effort between educational and medical institutions to address the pressing ethical issues in AI.
Notable Presenters and Keynotes
A lineup of distinguished speakers will grace the conference, ensuring a wealth of knowledge and variety in perspectives. Attendees will hear from Ryan Struyk, the director of AI innovation at CNN, who will provide insights into the media landscape shaped by artificial intelligence.
The keynote sessions are set to be particularly enlightening. Joe Vukov, Ph.D., from Loyola University Chicago, will open the conference on Thursday with a talk that promises to explore philosophical questions surrounding AI and ethics. Following this, on Friday, Paul Scherz, Ph.D., professor of theology at Notre Dame, will take the stage to discuss the ethical implications of AI through a theological lens, particularly given his role in the Vatican Centre for Digital Culture’s AI Research Group.
Kickoff and Programming Overview
The conference will officially kick off on Thursday at 5 p.m., with a welcome address featuring Tracy Stewart, Ph.D., the University’s interim provost, alongside conference co-planners George Aulisio, Ph.D., Dan Marenda, Ph.D., and Megan Heeder, Ph.D. Their introduction will set the tone for an engaging and thought-provoking series of discussions.
Friday’s agenda is packed, offering an impressive 28 breakout sessions across nine time slots. These sessions will begin as early as 9 a.m. and run until the late afternoon, providing ample opportunities for attendees to learn and debate various aspects of AI ethics.
Diverse Topics and Expert Perspectives
One of the most compelling features of the conference is the diversity of topics being explored. Presenters from a variety of fields will discuss the ethical implications of AI in contexts including but not limited to:
- Arts and Humanities: Exploring how AI impacts creative expression and cultural preservation.
- Business: Examining the ethical landscape AI shapes for industries and economies.
- Education: Discussing the role of AI in classroom settings and learning environments.
- Environmental Impact: Investigating how AI can aid in environmental conservation or contribute to ecological problems.
- Healthcare and Medicine: Understanding the ethical concerns regarding AI applications in patient care.
- Law and Policy: Analyzing current regulations and potential legal ramifications.
- Philosophy and Theology: Delving into the fundamental questions of existence and morality in an AI-driven world.
- Social Justice and Equity: Addressing potential biases in AI systems and their societal implications.
These sessions are set to provide in-depth knowledge, debate, and interdisciplinary dialogue among professionals and academics passionate about AI.
Accessing the Full Schedule
For those interested in a deeper dive, a comprehensive full conference schedule and list of presenters can be found on the University’s website. This resource will enable attendees to plan their involvement effectively and make the most of the diverse offerings available throughout the conference.
With a commitment to fostering critical discussions on the ethical dimensions of artificial intelligence, The University of Scranton is preparing for an illuminating event that promises not only to engage but to inspire action and thought in the rapidly evolving landscape of AI technology.
