At last night’s third installation of The Ultimo Series, renowned AI expert Professor Toby Walsh took the audience on a journey through the past four decades of artificial intelligence, offering a reflective look at how far the field has come. In his talk, Walsh recounted his personal experiences and observations, highlighting the dramatic shift of AI from a niche interest to a central pillar of modern technology.
For most of those 40 years, AI was largely dismissed as science fiction. Walsh noted that few knew about the field, and it often seemed more like fantasy than science fact. However, the landscape has changed drastically, especially with the development of OpenAI’s ChatGPT, which has taken the world by storm. Walsh pointed out that the decision to release ChatGPT to the public without fully grasping its potential success marked the beginning of what he described as “the greatest gold rush in human history.” ChatGPT saw one million downloads in its first week, exploding to 100 Million in the first month alone. Today, OpenAI stands as one of the most successful companies in the history of capitalism, driving unprecedented progress in technology.
In his talk, Walsh highlighted the widespread integration of AI into everyday life. From using Google Maps to interacting with machine learning algorithms, AI has become a routine part of our daily activities. Yet, he reminded the audience that AI operates on principles fundamentally different from human intelligence. Comparing artificial intelligence to artificial flight, Walsh emphasised that while AI may solve problems efficiently, it does so in ways that can be brittle, limited and prone to unique failures.
Reflecting on the future, Walsh discussed the impact of AI on the workforce. He highlighted the potential risks, with nearly half of all jobs at risk of automation. However, he also underscored the opportunities that this shift could bring, particularly in freeing humans from repetitive tasks and allowing more time for creative and fulfilling pursuits. The idea of a four-day workweek, made possible by AI, was presented as a potential benefit that is already leading to happier, more productive lives.
Walsh’s talk wasn’t without caution. He raised concerns about the misuse of AI, particularly in social media, where algorithms can create echo chambers and spread misinformation. He warned of a possible future where our shared reality is fragmented, with different people living in entirely separate worlds of information. His poignant observation that 2024 might be remembered as the golden age of the internet—when quality content was still primarily created by humans, rather than recycled by AI—served as a stark reminder of the challenges ahead.
During a lively Q&A discussion, guests explored a wide range of topics, from the essence of human creativity and the need for greater accountability from content creators to the potential benefits of using robots as content moderators to protect the well-being of those exposed to the dark web’s criminal activities.
As the talk concluded, Professor Walsh left the audience with a sense of both optimism and responsibility. While AI continues to revolutionise industries and daily life, it is crucial to ensure that this technology enhances rather than diminishes the human experience. Walsh’s deep respect for human intelligence and creativity was evident, as he reminded everyone that despite AI’s capabilities, human complexity and emotion remains irreplaceable.
In celebrating Walsh’s reflections, it’s clear that AI’s journey from obscurity to ubiquity is a testament to the relentless pursuit of innovation. As we look to the future, Walsh’s insights serve as a guide, reminding us to embrace the possibilities of AI while remaining vigilant about its impact on society.
Heartfelt thanks to Professor Walsh, our hosts Deputy Principal Academic Thom Marchbank and student STEM Leader Toby Dolph, as well as all attendees, for making this another enlightening evening in the Ultimo Series.
COMING UP IN THE ULTIMO SERIES
The Neurobiology of Early Life Trauma
Term 4 – 5.45pm to 7.30pm, Thursday 21 November 2024
Please join us for another stimulating lecture. Mary-Jo McVeigh, Social Worker of the Year 2023 USyd, and Director of Cara House presents on the ethics of care and lessons from the neurobiology of early life trauma and abuse.
For more information and tickets click here.
About The Ultimo Series
Prepare for an intellectually invigorating experience with our thought-stimulating series of academic lectures. Drawing on the expertise at IGS’ doorstep, renowned thought leaders will facilitate discussions and engage in interactive Q&A sessions on critical topics, such as our environmental impact, navigating Artificial Intelligence, the ethical intricacies of social media, and how to prepare our children for a changing world.
The Ultimo Series is directed by IGS Deputy Principal Academic Thom Marchbank.
Proceeds of all ticket sales will support the IGS Sharing Program including our Indigenous Scholarship Fund and Building Fund.