Science & Technology, Canada (Commonwealth Union) – The impact of Artificial Intelligence (AI) continues to stir up every sector with both fears and celebrations of the possibilities that AI may bring about.
AI continues to rearrange the world as we know it, with its transformative impact spanning across industries and societies. By enhancing efficiency, enabling smarter decision-making, and personalizing user experiences, AI has the potential to revolutionize the way we live, work, and interact. However, addressing the challenges and ethical considerations associated with AI is crucial to harness its full potential responsibly. A key concern of AI is its ethical use. There are growing calls for issues such as data privacy, algorithmic bias, and transparency requiring addressing to ensure that AI systems are fair, accountable, and unbiased.
The University of Montreal recently joined hands with the Posthumans theatre company and Duceppe to stage a play centering around the social implications of AI.
A Play Inspired by the Montreal Declaration Explores the Impact of AI on Society
The University of Montreal, in collaboration with Duceppe and Posthumans, is embarking on an innovative project that merges the realms of theater, artificial intelligence, and societal discourse. Written and directed by Dominique Leclerc and Patrice Charbonneau-Brunelle, this play will delve into the complex societal issues surrounding emerging digital technologies, particularly artificial intelligence, drawing inspiration from the Montreal Declaration for the responsible development of AI.
This interdisciplinary project brings together experts from various fields, including drama, social sciences, humanities, law, and artificial intelligence. Their diverse perspectives will contribute to the exploration of the ethical and societal implications of AI. Playing a key role in the project as the scientific director is Catherine Régis, who is a distinguished professor in the Faculty of Law and Associate Vice-Rector for Strategic Planning and Responsible Digital Innovation. Her expertise will help shape the play’s narrative, ensuring it aligns with the principles of responsible AI development outlined in the Montreal Declaration.
Supporting the creation and production of the play is Jean-Marc Larrue, a renowned professor in the French department with a deep understanding of theater. His guidance will ensure the play effectively communicates the complexities and nuances of the subject matter, engaging audiences and provoking thoughtful reflection.
This collaborative effort extends beyond academia, as students from various departments will also contribute to the play’s development. Their involvement will provide fresh perspectives and contribute to a rich and diverse portrayal of the societal impact of AI.
Through the artistry of theater, this play aims to stimulate dialogue and raise awareness about the ethical and social challenges posed by AI. By drawing inspiration from the Montreal Declaration, which emphasizes the responsible and inclusive development of AI, the play will invite audiences to reflect on the implications of these technologies and the importance of their responsible integration into society.
By exploring the human dimension of AI through the medium of theater, this project hopes to foster a deeper understanding of the issues at hand and encourage a broader public engagement in shaping the future of AI. It underscores the significance of interdisciplinary collaboration and the power of the arts to provoke critical thinking and societal reflection.
As the boundaries between technology and humanity continue to blur, this unique theatrical endeavor offers a platform to contemplate the potential impact of AI on our lives, while also emphasizing the need for responsible and ethical development. Through this thought-provoking play, the University of Montreal, Duceppe, and Posthumains aims to inspire meaningful conversations and collective action towards a future that harnesses the benefits of AI while safeguarding human values and societal well-being.
“At a time when human minds and governments are struggling to keep up with the exponential pace of technological change, our plays, performances, and installations create a space for connection and dialogue between the creators of these new technologies, their users and neophytes,” explained Leclerc.
