On December 6, 2023, the VNU-VSL Club of Scientists, the Faculty of Physics at VNU University of Science, and the Vietnam Institute for Advanced Study in Mathematics organized an intriguing scientific seminar titled “The Threats from AI and Related New Technologies,” led by Professor Neal Koblitz from the University of Washington in Seattle.
Prof. Koblitz (seated third from the right in the front row) with faculty, staff, and students from the
Faculty of Physics and the Faculty of Mathematics - Mechanics - Informatics, VNU University of Science
During the seminar, Prof. Koblitz addressed the threats that artificial intelligence (AI) and other emerging technologies may pose to our society. He began by drawing parallels to the destructive power of the atomic bomb and the dangers posed by smartphones. Concerning AI, he highlighted that the most significant current threat is the spread of false information generated by AI, and the high energy consumption required to train AI models, which has environmental impacts. Other dangers mentioned included the misuse of AI in education, law enforcement, and research. Additionally, some jobs could be displaced by AI. Prof. Koblitz also expressed concern that false information disseminated by AI could heavily influence the 2024 U.S. presidential election.
Prof. Koblitz presenting his talk on the threats from AI and related new technologies
To mitigate the threats AI poses to educational activities, he suggested employing student assessment and research evaluation methods that are less susceptible to AI influence. Furthermore, he advocated for the expansion and modernization of government regulations on AI, as well as strengthening community efforts to identify and counteract false narratives created by AI.
Students attentively listening to the interesting insights shared by Prof. Koblitz
Professor Koblitz’s presentation at the scientific seminar provided valuable and engaging information, which was met with great interest and enthusiasm from the students. The seminar featured lively discussions, with many participants sharing their thoughts, creating an engaging and dynamic atmosphere.
Faculty, staff, and students of the university eagerly continuing their discussions with Prof. Koblitz after the seminar
During his visit and lectures at VNU University of Science, Prof. Koblitz met and exchanged views with Prof. Dr. Sc. Vu Hoang Linh, the Rector of the University