AI Ethics and the Future of Higher Education with Dr. Ravit Dotan

The Tech Humanist Show

Renowned AI ethicist and philosopher, Ravit Dotan joins host Kate O’Neill as they dive deep into the world of artificial intelligence and ethics. The conversation covers the significant changes in public perception of AI, sparked by direct interaction and the influence of sci-fi-like misconceptions. Dotan addresses the ethical pitfalls of large language models, including the rise of deepfakes and misinformation, especially pertinent with upcoming elections. She elucidates the dangers of anthropomorphizing AI using terms like “hallucinations,” advocating instead for more accurate language to describe AI behaviors.

Furthermore, the episode underscores the digital divide exacerbating global inequalities and delves into the complex challenge of forming global policies on AI ethics amidst diverse cultural and legislative landscapes. Dotan shares insights from a collaborative project aimed at tackling ethical risks in AI, and discusses shifting education paradigms to integrate technology like ChatGPT for solving modern problems.

Listeners will also gain a nuanced understanding of the current AI climate, ethical AI governance, and the practical alignment of academia and industry. Join Kate and Ravit for a thought-provoking discussion that promises to redefine how we interact with and think about technology and ethics in our digital age. Don’t miss this comprehensive examination of AI’s role in our lives and the urgent need for responsible and inclusive approaches to its development and deployment.

Guest Contact Information:

Website:TechBetter.ai
X.com: @DotanRavit
LinkedIn: Ravit Dotan

Topics Covered:

• User Interaction with AI
• Misleading Terminology and AI Hype
• Ethical Concerns with Large Language Models
• Digital Divide
• Cultural and Ethical Challenges
• Philosophical Perspective
• Ravit Dotan’s background and expertise in AI ethics
• AI Metaphors and Terminology
• Public Perception of AI
• Reflections on Current AI Climate
• Challenges in Humanities Education
• Principles in AI Ethics
• Interdisciplinary Approach
• Academia vs. Private Sector Gap
• AI in Education

Episode Chapters

00:00 Misleading AI metaphors cause public confusion.
06:32 Replace “hallucinations” with “misinformation” for accuracy.
07:29 AI’s public engagement surge raises speculation.
11:22 Technologists’ language humanizes AI, fueling hype.
15:58 Risk of inequality; leapfrogging tech challenges/opportunities.
20:55 Focus on AI governance, stakeholder engagement, accountability.
25:01 Academic knowledge gap in responsible technology development.
26:45 Balance incentives for responsible AI across sectors.
31:13 Focus education on problem-solving using disciplinary tools.
32:21 Collaboration addressing company risks with students’ help.