The interdisciplinary conference “When Robots Think – Interdisciplinary Views on Intelligent Automation” will take place from 14 to 16 November 2018 in Münster.
In Western societies, we are surrounded by artificially intelligent systems. Most of these systems are embedded in online platforms like Facebook. But embodiment of AI, be it by voice (Siri, Alexa, Cortana) or by actual physical embodiment (as in the case of robots) give artificially intelligent systems another dimension in terms of their impact on how we perceive these systems, how they shape our communication with them and with fellow humans and how we live and work together. Newest scientific developments transform what long has been only science fiction into real systems to be used by common users. While many of the systems under development are not yet market-ready, they will be within short time and they have great potential to completely change our society. Because laypersons’ knowledge of intelligent automation is based on science fiction with its dramatic, controversial, highly philosophical storylines, societal climate is rather reserved than accepting towards artificially intelligent systems. On the other side, we observe that people are readily and seemingly unreflective about the consequences of adopting new technologies once they are on the market. Artificially intelligent systems will be integral part of our homes, workplaces, industry production sites, transportation, care facilities and educational institutions. Thus, it is necessary to develop these systems responsibly under consideration of ethical, legal and social issues (ELSI). While AI is indeed a field in need for interdisciplinary research and development, it is, however, still a challenge to bring together different disciplines, to develop common ground – a common understanding – and establish overarching projects. The purpose of the conference is to bring together some of the best international researchers from diverse scientific fields to discuss and evaluate the state of the art of intelligent automation and its impact on individuals and society. To achieve this goal, the conference is divided into five sections with at least two invited speakers per theme and the possibility for attendees to actively take part by presenting their work as short talk or poster.
The deadline for applications is July 31, 2018.
For more information, check the conference’s official website.