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AI and Society
Last Updated: 2026-06-03 00:07:35
Abstract
This lecture series brings together ETH-internal and external experts from a broad range of disciplines exploring AI’s impact on society from different angles. The focus is on diverse perspectives regarding how AI affects or could affect society, and what this implies for decision-makers (public policy).
Objective
Students and the broader public will learn about frontier developments in AI and its applications from the perspective of their current implications and possible future impacts on society. The objective is for students to understand the complex interaction between digital technologies – in this case AI – and society. This course will strengthen their critical thinking on AI’s consequences for our world and strengthen their responsibility as future leaders.
Content
This interdisciplinary course brings together experts from computer science, the social sciences, law and ethics, as well as leaders from business and public policy to explore how AI is impacting or could impact society, as well as different approaches to dealing with and governing these new technologies. Leading computer scientists who will explore the technical dimension, including how AI can be made more responsible from a technical point of view. Experts from other fields will explore AI’s impact on specific domains, such as the labour market, the environment, security (cyber, dual-use, warfare) and more. A third group of experts will explore the ethical questions posed by AI and a fourth group of speakers will discuss different avenues for AI governance. The first lecture would be a big-picture ‘setting the scene’ session, followed by 12 lectures on various aspects such as security, diversity, governance, geopolitics, etc., and finally a panel discussion with representative from government, industry and academia to round-up this series.
General Information
- Language
- English
- Levels
- DS , MSC
- Frequency
- Yearly recurring
Examination
- Type
- graded semester performance
Course Components
| Type | Title | Time & Place | Hours |
|---|---|---|---|
| lecture | AI and Society | No time listed | 2 h weekly |
Offered In
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Science in Perspective (In “Science in Perspective”-courses students learn to reflect on ETH’s STEM subjects from the perspective of humanities, political and social sciences. Only the courses listed below will be recognized as "Science in Perspective" courses.)
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Type A: Enhancement of Reflection Competence (SiP courses are recommended for bachelor students after their first-year examination and for all master- or doctoral students. All SiP courses are listed in Type A. Courses listed under Type B are only recommendations for enrollment for specific departments.)
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