AI: Friend or Foe?
ChatGPT, Perplexity, StabilityAI – the future has arrived. But the question is: should we welcome it, or fear it?
We are in the golden age of the next phase of technology: Artificial Intelligence. What is it? How is it changing our world? Where will it take us next? These are the important questions for us to ponder, but beyond this is a far more necessary question. Just because we can, should we?
This course will explore the big questions of AI, and the small questions – what is its potential? What are its limitations? How can it be used in a tangible way to disrupt business models and move humanity forward? How will different sectors adopt it? What will it mean for jobs and incomes, indeed the nature of work itself? What will it mean for nations and global governance? How will it affect global hegemony and who will decide the rules governing it? Who will be the winners and losers?
Course Objectives
This course aims to explore the economics of generative AI, exploring how it will leave no facet of life untouched, from its political impacts to its environmental impacts. The course will be delivered through a series of lectures and workshops to equip students with theoretical knowledge and hands-on experience. In addition, seminars will offer a platform for deeper discussions, guest speakers, and student presentations.
Intended Audience
This course provides a comprehensive insight into all things AI. It is not intended for those who wish to learn the mathematical underpinnings of the computer science or coding aspect of AI. It is for those who wish to explore how AI is affecting our world, from labour markets to politics, from business models to us as humans.
Previous Knowledge
No previous knowledge is required, though the course would be of most interest to students who have some understanding of Economics, and an ability to think in an inter-disciplinary manner will be vital. Participation in class discussions and a willingness to share your views is essential.
Transferable Knowledge and Skills
By the end of this course, students should be able to discuss advantages and disadvantages of AI, through the lens of multiple disciplines, from Economics to Politics to Philosophy, as well as the nature of AI, in a more informed manner.
Mr Mo Tanweer
Mo Tanweer studied Economics at Cambridge University and, after a career in investment banking, was Head of Economics & Politics at Eton College. He assists with teaching Macroeconomics and International Business on the MBA and Executive MBA at the Judge Business School at Cambridge University, where he also supervises Macroeconomics and International Politics. He also lectures Macroeconomics in Business at Rotterdam School of Management whilst providing consultancy advice to both small and large corporates on how external shocks such as AI may impact their business models.