SYMPOSIUM: ROLE OF AI IN HUMANITY ,THE FUTURE WE WANT VS THE FUTURE WE FEAR
The IEEE GU student branch organized a thought-provoking symposium titled “The Future of Humanity in the Realm of AI: The Future We Fear vs The Future We Want.” This symposium brought together students, researchers, and experts to explore the transformative potential of artificial intelligence (AI) and its profound implications on society, ethics, and the future of humanity.
The event delved into critical discussions surrounding two contrasting visions of AI’s future. On one side, the fear of AI-driven dystopian scenarios—where automation, job displacement, and loss of control over intelligent systems dominate. On the other side, the hope of an AI-powered world—where technology works in harmony with human values, solving complex global challenges and promoting equity, sustainability, and enhanced quality of life.
This symposium was aligned with several Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), including:
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SDG 8: Decent Work and Economic Growth – Discussions focused on ensuring AI fosters job creation, decent work, and inclusive economic growth, while mitigating the risks of automation and unemployment.
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SDG 9: Industry, Innovation, and Infrastructure – The symposium explored how AI can drive innovation, build resilient infrastructures, and foster sustainable industrialization in a rapidly changing world.
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SDG 10: Reduced Inequality – Participants examined how AI can be a tool for reducing inequalities by promoting fair access to opportunities, education, and resources across society.
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SDG 16: Peace, Justice, and Strong Institutions – Ethical governance of AI was a key theme, focusing on ensuring that AI development aligns with human rights, transparency, and accountable institutions.
Conclusion:
The symposium emphasized that while AI holds immense promise for innovation, economic growth, and social progress, it is crucial to approach this technological revolution with caution. The rapid pace of AI development requires us to integrate ethical frameworks and rigorous precautions to avoid unintended consequences. Participants were reminded that responsible innovation, guided by strong ethical principles and human-centered values, is key to building a future where AI serves humanity’s best interests.
We must be careful and work with a balanced approach that fosters both innovation and safeguards, ensuring that AI does not exacerbate existing inequalities or create unforeseen risks but instead paves the way for a sustainable, equitable, and inclusive future.
The symposium was part of a series of events organized to inspire dialogue around cutting-edge technology, global responsibility, and the role of youth in shaping the future.