Franschhoek Theatre hosts public talk on AI

The Franschhoek Theatre is set to host a public talk focusing on artificial intelligence (AI) on Wednesday April 3.

Professor Bruce Bassett, from the Department of Mathematics and Applied Mathematics at the University of Cape Town, will explore the possible emergence artificial super-intelligence, and discuss its implications for humanity.

Artificial intelligence has been ubiquitous since the launch of OpenAI’s ChatGPT. This revolutionary technology has already left a profound impact on society.

Despite its transformative potential, concerns have arisen regarding AI’s impact on employment, its role in influencing elections through misinformation campaigns, and the possibility of autonomous decision-making by AI systems.

Professor Bassett will ponder the feasibility of achieving such super-intelligence within the next two decades, analyse associated risks, and assess whether the excitement surrounding it is merely fuelled by Hollywood fantasies. Furthermore, he will discuss the potential beneficial applications of artificial super-intelligence for mankind.

He will also consider the numerous opportunities for societal advancement offered by AI. It has already aided medical research, assisted in financial modelling, revolutionised data science, and empowered individuals by streamlining tasks like research and writing.

Professor Bassett brings a wealth of experience to the discussion. After graduating with a PhD from the University of Oxford, he took up a post at the University of Cape Town.

His research spans diverse fields, including radio astronomy. He was head of Data Science for the Square Kilometre Array (SKA), and has played a pivotal role in advancing the global status of South Africa’s scientific community.

This talk is the fifth SmallTalX event at the Franschhoek Theatre. In February, the herpetologist Tyrone Ping introduced fynbos snakes and reptiles to a sold-out audience. Recent talks on radio astronomy at MeerKAT and shark conservation have also sold out quickly, so early booking is encouraged.

Future events will explore subjects such as the upcoming South African elections (with political commentator and Daily Maverick writer John Matisonn), the marine life of the Cape peninsula (with marine biologist and author Georgina Jones), and local soil biodiversity (with biologist and springtail expert Dr Charlene Janion-Scheepers).

Interested attendees can join the conversation at the Franschhoek Theatre on April 3rd at 7pm.

Tickets cost R250 and include wine, snacks, and an opportunity to engage in a Q&A session with Professor Bassett.

Booking in advance is essential, and can be done through the Franschhoek Theatre website at www.franschhoektheatre.co.za

For inquiries, contact Leila Shirley at 073 421 8879, or email smalltalx.info@gmail.com