Humans have been sharing stories about intelligent machines and artificial minds for the last 3000 years, and this narrative archive has profoundly shaped the way we think and talk about AI. Are these imaginaries and science fictions now limiting public perceptions about the benefits and risks, the possibilities and the pitfalls, of AI? How are these stories influencing security and innovation in AI? Do we need better stories about AI?
We will consider these questions (and more) and explore the importance of what UNESCO calls ‘Futures Literacy’ as a tool to help us move our AI imaginaries beyond the limitations posed by utopian and dystopian thinking.
Science Fiction or Science Fact: How stories have shaped the way we see AI
Bristol City Hall