In academic settings, arguments are often used to convince others of a particular point of view. However, not all arguments are created equal. The success of an argument depends on understanding the audience's beliefs, trusted sources, and values. Mathematical and logical arguments work well because they rely on shared beliefs, but disagreements that involve outside information often come down to what sources and authorities people trust. When disagreements can't be settled with statistics or evidence, making a convincing argument may depend on engaging the audience's values. The challenge is to correctly identify what's important to people who don't already agree with us. Engaging in discussion and being exposed to counter-arguments can help make our own arguments and reasoning more convincing. By understanding the elements that make arguments successful, students can become more effective communicators and critical thinkers in both academic and real-world settings.

Can AI-generated persuasive appeals sway human opinions on hot social issues? Stanford researchers find out. Chatbots' political persuasion has significant implications for democracy and national security. Discover how AI fared in the experiment and why it calls for immediate consideration of regulations.

Are you curious about the risks of artificial intelligence (AI) and how it affects our lives? Check out the thought-provoking article, "What We Missed about Social Media," on JSTOR Daily. The author shares their experience working in social media before it became the corporate giant it is today, and how it has changed the way we interact with each other. Discover how generative AI can dehumanize us, mislead us, and manipulate us, and why we need to be aware of its implications. Don't miss out on this insightful read!

Are you using AI-powered writing assistants to help you with your school work? A new study from Cornell University has found that these tools not only put words into your mouth but also ideas into your head. The study shows that the biases baked into AI writing tools could have concerning repercussions for culture and politics. Co-author Mor Naaman, professor at the Jacobs Technion-Cornell Institute at Cornell Tech, warns that apart from increasing efficiency and creativity, there could be other consequences for individuals and society. Read more about this groundbreaking study at Cornell University.

Want to make social media a more positive and inclusive space? Researchers from King's College London and Harvard University have created a framework to prioritize content that fosters positive debate, deliberation and cooperation on social media. Algorithms that surface content aimed at building positive interactions could be more highly ranked, leading to more meaningful online interactions and a reduction in destructive conflict.

Academic concepts like technology, media control, and truth-telling are explored in George Orwell's work, particularly in his novel 1984. Orwell's fascination with technology and its potential is relatable to our own generation's interest in social media and online identity. The novel's portrayal of a state controlling all media and messaging is contrasted with our diverse media landscape today, although some states still try to suppress online speech. Orwell's commitment to truth-telling is a valuable lesson for us today, as we navigate the spread of mistruths and lies on social media. By exploring these academic concepts, we can better understand the role of technology in our lives and the importance of staying vigilant against attempts to control or manipulate information.

Are you passionate about technology and its impact on society? Do you believe in the ethical use of Artificial Intelligence (AI)? If so, then a career in Artificial Intelligence Ethics may be the perfect fit for you! As an Artificial Intelligence Ethicist, you will be responsible for ensuring that AI technology is developed and used in a responsible and ethical manner. This means considering the potential consequences of AI on society, including issues of bias, privacy, and the impact on jobs. One of the most appealing aspects of this field is the opportunity to make a real difference in the world. For example, an AI Ethicist might work with a healthcare company to develop an AI system that can diagnose diseases more accurately than a human doctor. Or, they might work with a social media platform to ensure that their algorithms are not promoting hate speech or other harmful content. Typical duties might include conducting research on the ethical implications of AI, developing guidelines and policies for AI development and use, and working with cross-functional teams to ensure that AI systems are designed and implemented in a responsible manner. There are many potential areas of specialisation within this field, including AI policy, AI governance, and AI risk management. Other related fields might include computer science, philosophy, and law. Typical education and training for an Artificial Intelligence Ethicist might include a degree in computer science, philosophy, or a related field. Some popular undergraduate programs and majors include Computer Science, Philosophy, and Ethics. Helpful personal attributes for an AI Ethicist might include strong critical thinking skills, excellent communication skills, and a passion for social justice. Job prospects for Artificial Intelligence Ethicists are strong, with many opportunities available in both the public and private sectors. Some notable potential employers include Google, Microsoft, and the World Economic Forum. In the longer term, the outlook for this field is extremely positive, with the demand for ethical AI experts only expected to grow as AI becomes more integrated into our daily lives. So, if you're interested in technology, ethics, and making a positive impact on society, consider a career in Artificial Intelligence Ethics!

In the world of risk and prediction, are you a hedgehog or a fox? The philosopher Isaiah Berlin wrote about the two animals, with the hedgehog knowing one big thing and the fox knowing many things. Political scientist Philip Tetlock found that foxes were better at predicting than hedgehogs, who were too confident in their forecasts. To be a good forecaster, one needs to be open to new knowledge, have insight into biases, and be willing to acknowledge uncertainty and change their minds. Rather than saying what will happen, good forecasters give probabilities for future events. So, are you willing to be a fox and adapt to changing circumstances, or will you be a hedgehog and stick to one overarching way of looking at the world? By being a fox, you can improve your ability to predict and make better decisions for the future.

The Prisoner's Dilemma is a classic problem that can shed light on a range of real-world phenomena. In this dilemma, two people face a choice: cooperate and both do well, or fail to cooperate and both do worse. Understanding this dilemma can help you see how cooperation is key to solving complex problems, from overfishing to pollution to creating just societies. By exploring the underlying structure of this problem, you can gain insight into the benefits of cooperation, and how to approach complex situations where your choices impact those around you. Learning about the Prisoner's Dilemma can help you become a better problem solver, both intellectually and practically, by equipping you with the tools you need to think critically and work collaboratively with others.

Artificial Intelligence (AI) is no longer just a sci-fi concept or a futuristic technology. It has become an integral part of our lives, from virtual assistants in our phones to self-driving cars on our roads. However, with great power comes great responsibility, and this is where the study of Artificial Intelligence Ethics comes in. As an undergraduate student of AI Ethics, you will explore the ethical implications of AI and its impact on society. You will learn about the importance of transparency, accountability, and fairness in the development and deployment of AI systems. You will also delve into the ethical considerations around privacy, bias, and human autonomy in the age of AI. One of the most interesting aspects of this field is the real-life examples that demonstrate its relevance. For instance, AI-powered facial recognition technology has been proven to have a higher error rate for people of color, which raises questions about the fairness and accuracy of such systems. Another example is the use of AI in hiring processes, which can perpetuate existing biases and discrimination. As an AI Ethics student, you will explore these issues and more, and learn how to design AI systems that are ethical and inclusive. In terms of research and innovation, AI Ethics is a rapidly growing field with many exciting developments. Some of the most inspiring academic discourse is around the concept of "Explainable AI", which aims to make AI systems more transparent and understandable to humans. Well-known academic figures in this field include Joanna Bryson, who has written extensively on AI Ethics and is a leading voice in the field. At the undergraduate level, typical majors and modules in AI Ethics include Ethics and Technology, Philosophy of AI, and Machine Learning Ethics. There are also opportunities for further specialisation in areas such as AI Policy, AI Governance, and AI Law. For example, you could explore the legal implications of AI in healthcare, or the ethical considerations around the use of AI in warfare. As for potential future jobs and roles, AI Ethics is a field that is in high demand. You could work as an AI Ethics consultant, helping companies and organizations to design and implement ethical AI systems. You could also work in government agencies or non-profits, shaping AI policy and regulation. Key industries for prospective future employment include tech, healthcare, finance, and defense. Notable potential employers include Google's AI Ethics team, Microsoft's AI and Ethics in Engineering and Research (AETHER) Committee, and the Partnership on AI, which is a collaboration between tech giants such as Amazon, Facebook, and IBM. To succeed in this field, you will need a combination of technical and ethical skills, as well as a passion for social justice and a deep understanding of the impact of technology on society. A background in computer science, philosophy, or social sciences can be helpful, as well as strong critical thinking and communication skills. In conclusion, the study of AI Ethics is an exciting and meaningful field that combines cutting-edge technology with ethical considerations. As an undergraduate student in this field, you will explore the ethical implications of AI and learn how to design systems that are fair, transparent, and inclusive. With many potential career paths and a growing demand for ethical AI expertise, AI Ethics is a field that is sure to make a positive impact on the world.

The concept of the "Prisoner's Dilemma" has been studied for over 60 years for its insights into political, military, and economic affairs. The scenario involves two criminals who must decide whether to cooperate or betray each other, with each facing different consequences based on their actions. This dilemma highlights the conflict between self-interest and cooperation, and how rational individuals acting in their own self-interest can bring about the worst-case scenario. Learning about this concept can help students understand the importance of cooperation and the dangers of solely focusing on individual self-interest. It also has practical applications in fields such as politics, economics, and international relations. By exploring this concept through reading, reflection, and self-directed projects, students can gain a deeper understanding of human behavior and decision-making.

Throughout history, many women have made significant contributions to society, often overcoming immense challenges to accomplish extraordinary feats. Ada Lovelace, Zora Neale Hurston, Nadia Comaneci, Beryl Markham, and Sonia Sotomayor are just a few examples of women who blazed trails in various fields. Lovelace, the first computer programmer, Hurston, an influential novelist and folklorist, Comaneci, the first athlete to receive a perfect 10 in an Olympic event, Markham, the first person to fly solo across the Atlantic from the east to the west, and Sotomayor, the first Hispanic to be appointed to the US Supreme Court. By exploring the lives of these remarkable women, students can learn about diverse fields of study, gain inspiration and develop important skills like critical thinking, creativity, and leadership, and be motivated to make their own mark on the world.

The World Wide Web is an integral part of our daily lives, but do you know what it really is? It's not the same as the internet, which is simply a way for computers to share information. The World Wide Web is like a virtual city, where we communicate with each other in web languages, with browsers acting as our translators. What makes the Web so special is that it's organized like our brains, with interconnected thoughts and ideas, thanks to hyperlinks. By exploring the World Wide Web, you can learn more about web languages like HTML and JavaScript, and gain valuable skills in communication, research, and problem-solving. Plus, you'll be part of a global community that connects minds across all boundaries. So why not dive in and explore this fascinating virtual city?

In "Artificial Intelligence," computer scientist Melanie Mitchell takes readers on a fascinating journey through the history and current state of AI. Mitchell delves into the most pressing questions about AI today, including how intelligent the best AI programs truly are, how they work, and what they can do. She examines the disconnect between the hype and actual achievements in the field, providing clear insights into what has been accomplished and how far we still have to go. This engaging and accessible book is an essential guide to understanding the impact of AI on our future. Recommended for anyone interested in the intersection of technology and society, "Artificial Intelligence" provides a comprehensive overview of the history and current state of AI. This book is particularly relevant for computer scientists, data scientists, and engineers who want to understand the cutting-edge AI programs and the historical lines of thought underpinning recent achievements. It is also useful for policymakers and those concerned with the ethical implications of AI, as Mitchell explores the fears and hopes surrounding the technology. Additionally, anyone interested in the future of work, automation, and the impact of technology on society will find this book thought-provoking and informative.

Effective altruism has been a cornerstone in solving global problems, relying heavily on quantitative metrics. But what about the ideas, experiences, and problems that resist quantification? Let's explore how we can create a more nuanced and inclusive framework for giving that incorporates unique passions.

Historians are using machine learning to analyze historical documents, correcting distortions and drawing connections. But as machines play a greater role in the future, how much should we cede to them of the past? Discover the implications for everything from art to drug development.

Information overload is a growing concern in today's world, where technology has made it easier for businesses to access vast amounts of data. However, this has led to the paradox of too much information and too little time, leading to individuals and organizations struggling to make informed decisions. The impact of information overload on decision making has become a major topic of discussion among leading academics, such as Daniel Kahneman and Richard Thaler, who have explored the role of heuristics and biases in decision making. Studies have shown that individuals who have access to more information tend to experience increased anxiety and stress, leading to poor decision making and decision avoidance. Businesses have taken advantage of this by presenting their customers with an overwhelming amount of information to make their decision more difficult, often leading to impulsive purchases. This practice, known as 'nudge theory', was popularized by Thaler and Cass Sunstein, who argued that by presenting individuals with a small change to the environment, they can be influenced to make a different decision. An example of how businesses use information overload to their advantage is the use of advertisements on social media. Advertisers use algorithms to determine which advertisements to show to each user, often leading to an endless scroll of irrelevant or unwanted advertisements. This leads to individuals feeling overwhelmed and bombarded, often leading to impulsive purchases, simply to make the advertisements stop. To prevent falling victim to information overload and poor decision making, it is important to practice critical thinking and to seek out reliable sources of information. This can be done by asking questions, seeking out multiple perspectives, and by taking the time to reflect on one's own thoughts and feelings. In conclusion, by understanding how businesses use information overload to their advantage, we can make more informed decisions and take control of our own lives.

In 1833, Lydia Maria Child shocked readers with her book "An Appeal in Favor of that Class of Americans Called Africans," denouncing slavery and exposing its power in US politics. Child, together with a small group of activists, were not just antislavery, but abolitionists, convinced that slavery should end immediately and without compensation to enslavers. Despite facing backlash and sexism, Child's activism inspired the formation of the Boston Female Anti-Slavery Society and the first national political gathering of Black and white women, leading to legal protection for Black Americans in Massachusetts.

Did you know that the treadmill was originally created in the 1800s as a punishment for English prisoners? However, social movements led by religious groups, philanthropies, and celebrities like Charles Dickens sought to change these dire conditions and help reform the prisoners. The treadmill was seen as a fantastic way of whipping prisoners into shape, and that added benefit of powering mills helped to rebuild a British economy decimated by the Napoleonic Wars. Although the original treadmill was banned for being excessively cruel, it returned with a vengeance in the 1970s as a way to improve aerobic fitness and lose unwanted pounds. Learning about the history of the treadmill can help you understand how social movements can bring about positive change and how ideas can evolve over time.

Are you fascinated by the possibility of creating immersive, interactive worlds? Do you want to be at the forefront of technology, shaping the future of entertainment, education, and even healthcare? Then studying Virtual Reality Development might be the perfect field for you! Virtual Reality Development is an exciting and rapidly growing field that combines computer science, design, and psychology to create realistic, interactive virtual environments. From video games to medical simulations, virtual reality has the potential to revolutionize the way we learn, work, and play. In recent years, there have been many exciting innovations and breakthroughs in virtual reality technology. For example, researchers are exploring the use of VR to treat mental health disorders, such as anxiety and PTSD. In the gaming industry, VR has opened up new possibilities for immersive storytelling and gameplay. And in the world of architecture and design, VR is being used to create realistic virtual models of buildings and spaces. At the undergraduate level, students studying Virtual Reality Development will typically take courses in computer science, mathematics, and design. They will learn programming languages such as C++, Java, and Python, as well as 3D modeling and animation software. Students may also have the opportunity to specialize in areas such as game design, medical simulations, or architectural visualization. After graduation, there are many exciting career opportunities for those with a degree in Virtual Reality Development. Graduates may work in the gaming industry, designing and developing immersive virtual worlds for video games. They may also work in the medical field, creating simulations to train healthcare professionals. Other potential career paths include architecture, engineering, and education. Some notable employers in the field of virtual reality include Oculus VR, Google, and Sony Interactive Entertainment. In addition, many startups and independent developers are working on exciting new VR projects. To succeed in the field of Virtual Reality Development, students should have a strong foundation in computer science and mathematics. They should also be creative and have a passion for design and storytelling. A background in psychology or cognitive science can also be helpful, as understanding how people interact with virtual environments is a key aspect of VR development. So if you're interested in technology, design, and psychology, and want to be part of an exciting and rapidly growing field, consider studying Virtual Reality Development!