We are currently exploring the following debate events and will announce more information in due course.
Data Discrimination: the *isms in the algorithms!
Q: How do we disrupt centuries-old systems that have consistently privileged certain societal groups, perpetuating inequality rather than fostering equality? This perpetuation of bias continues to shape our future, embedding exclusionary practices into the very fabric of our technologies. Is every advancement destined to reinforce exclusion, or can we forge a path toward true inclusivity and justice?
Join us in an exploration into the crossroads of scholarship, technology and human rights, delving deep into the pervasive issues of discrimination and bias entrenched within algorithms. Our focus extends to critical dimensions encompassing activism, emphasising the intersectionality of inclusivity and equity when discussing topics of data and AI. The debate seeks to highlight the ethics and draw attention to the societal impacts.
The Post-Truth Era: combatting political disinformation and manipulation
Q: In what ways is the fabrication of truth disrupting political systems? What measures can we anticipate from governing bodies, slow to react, to prevent the descent into the impending chaos of a fact-free world? Can we dissect the ramifications of disinformation and manipulation and highlight potential strategies to safeguard democratic integrity in the face of this pervasive threat?
Join us in exploring this interconnectedness of historical events and the influence of large-scale trends (as reflected in Asimov’s concept of ‘psychohistory’ from the book ‘Foundation’). In 2024, this principle will manifest in the convergence of the biggest election year in history and the proliferation of Artificial Intelligence. The debate seeks to unfold the convergence of these realms: the elections and the associated disinformation campaigns and manipulation techniques, both of which pose a perpetual threat to democratic discourse, social justice endeavours and perhaps to democracy itself.
The Privacy Paradox: seen, heard, acknowledged and targeted
Q: In pursuit of ever-growing presence in the spotlight, how much of our personal data are we willing to sacrifice? And when every aspect of our lives becomes exposed, how do we safeguard against the erosion of privacy and its fundamental rights? When is the time to mitigate the consequences of a world where privacy is increasingly scarce? With collective action and regulatory frameworks being essential for safeguarding privacy rights effectively, who do we rely on?
Join us for a critical dialogue surrounding citizenship, human rights and ethical considerations in the literal face of evolving technologies. As surveillance techniques expand, disparate impacts emerge, affecting communities unequally based on race, socioeconomic status and location. The debate seeks to highlight the true toll of the diminishing privacy on our freedoms and on society at large.
Data for Survival: confronting the climate crisis
Q: In the face of intersecting global catastrophes, ranging from mass migration to climate-related upheaval how can policymakers transcend profit motives and prioritise the common good? Within the climate crisis are additional complexities of lumbering health infrastructures, immigration dynamics and social integration. Is it conceivable for policy decisions to genuinely reflect broader societal concerns from a near future perspective? What are the possibilities and limitations of policymaking in navigating these critical junctures? Are the contributions from citizen-science and critical contributions from the arts and culture being considered by policymakers?
Join us in exploring the intersecting realms of climate, health and politics in the algorithmic age. How data and technology utilised correctly can help navigate these issues. Among the highlights, the debate seeks to discuss the challenges coming from climate-induced migration (human and non-human) and the associated climate health changes that will strain existing infrastructure. Foregrounding the utilisation of cross-sectional datasets and involving post-disciplinary agents are essential to anticipate the challenges ahead.
Powering Inequality: unveiling the true costs of energy access
Q: How do we navigate the paradox of unequal technology access and the implications when everyone gains access? How do we grapple with the demands for production to eliminate this inequality? What do then the ongoing needs for energy resources reveal? What additional challenges does this entail?
Join us in diving into the intersecting realms of activism, citizenship, technology and human rights. Unlock understanding about unequal access to energy and how this perpetuates socioeconomic disparities globally. The need for balance is imperative for equal technological access alongside the energy requirements it entails. The debate seeks to highlight this complex challenge for equal provision, whilst acknowledging that this consumption comes at a cost.