The “Society 5.0 Ethics: A Festival of Ideas” took place on June 17-18, 2024, at RMIT University, co-hosted with Utrecht University, bringing together prominent academics and industry leaders to discuss ethical technology innovation. This inaugural event set the foundation for ongoing conversations and collaborations in shaping the ethical landscape of future technologies, with plans for future gatherings.
On June 17-18, 2024, the vibrant setting of RMIT University was transformed into a hub of thought-provoking discussions during the “Society 5.0 Ethics: A Festival of Ideas.” This inaugural event, co-hosted with Utrecht University, gathered a constellation of distinguished academics, industry pioneers, and eager students, all partaking in an enlightening exploration of ethical technology innovation. RMIT Chancellor Peggy O’Neal AO symbolically kicked off the festival, drawing attendees into a world where human-centered values ignite the dialogue around technology’s role in society. The festival featured a rich tapestry of keynote speakers, each offering unique insights that reverberated throughout the hall. From Professor Annette Markham’s compelling call for recognizing the ethical dilemmas faced in technology-disrupted futures to Dr. Jonathan Kolieb’s roundtable which questioned whether internet access should be deemed a fundamental human right, participants engaged in a myriad of stimulating sessions. Other notable discussions included Professor Chris Speed’s intriguing inquiry into the role of finance in creating a better world, and Professor Karin Verspoor’s examination of artificial intelligence through a critical lens. Setting the tone for an interactive environment, attendees were not mere spectators; they were encouraged to contribute to shaping the ethical guidelines of the future. The event showcased a cross-disciplinary approach, emphasizing the importance of collaboration across various sectors to address pressing societal concerns. As part of the RMIT Engaging for Impact initiative, the festival not only fostered connections among participants but also laid the groundwork for ongoing conversations that will continue beyond the event. Anticipation is already building for the next installment of this series, scheduled to take place at Utrecht University in 2025, enabling a further exchange of ideas and continuing the quest for establishing practices that uphold ethical technology innovation. Those interested in unraveling the intricacies of society’s digital future are encouraged to reach out to Professor Lisa Given at RMIT University for further engagement.
The event “Society 5.0 Ethics: A Festival of Ideas” signifies a pivotal moment in addressing the ethical challenges posed by emerging technologies. As society navigates the complexities of a rapidly digitizing world, prioritizing human-centered values becomes imperative. This festival aims to not only explore these ethical dilemmas but also encourage innovation that harmonizes technological advancement with societal wellbeing. It marks the beginning of global discussions surrounding these critical issues, setting the stage for future conferences that will continue to address the ethical implications of technology.
In summary, the “Society 5.0 Ethics: A Festival of Ideas” encapsulated a transformative dialogue regarding the ethical landscapes of future technologies, fostering connections and encouraging collaborative efforts toward responsible innovation. With the successful launch of this initiative, anticipation swells for the ongoing discourse that will emerge in future conferences, ensuring that societal needs and human values remain front and center in the technological narrative.
Original Source: www.rmit.edu.au
