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About this talk

Artificial Intelligence is reshaping our world, transforming economies, societies, daily interactions and the institutions that support them. Many researchers and policymakers view this as a pivotal moment, one that could lead to greater global wellbeing if managed well or to growing instability if risks are left unchecked. Supporters argue that AI is driving positive change across the world. It is advancing human welfare by making scientific research faster and more reliable, improving diagnostics and treatment in healthcare, and strengthening environmental planning through climate modelling. It is boosting productivity leading to economic growth and helping public services respond more accurately to social needs. Some highlight its potential to widen democratic participation by improving access to information and enabling new forms of civic engagement. Critics warn that AI presents potentially unsurmountable challenges. Its enormous energy demands will worsen the climate crisis. The inherent biases in its data will perpetuate discrimination and social inequity. The rise of deepfakes and misinformation, will erode trust and kill democracy. In the job market, AI-driven automation will displace roles, reshape careers, and concentrate power and wealth with a limited few. Ultimately the rapid pace of its development and deployment may lead to our inability to govern and control it. Join us to hear four speakers present their competing viewpoints. This event is part of the LSE Festival: How to save the planet running from Monday 15 to Saturday 20 June 2026.

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