Established 1936 – John A. Collins, President

EMBASSY SUITES BY HILTON, GRAND RAPIDS DOWNTOWN

Big E's Sports Grille

710 Monroe Avenue NW, Grand Rapids

WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 20, 2023   –  7:15 a.m.

According to Wikipedia, "The seeds of modern Artificial Intelligence were planted by philosophers who attempted to describe the process of human thinking as the mechanical manipulation of symbols. This work culminated in the invention of the programmable digital computer in the 1940s, a machine based on the abstract essence of mathematical reasoning. This device and the ideas behind it inspired a handful of scientists to begin seriously discussing the possibility of building an electronic brain."

Artificial Intelligence and its use (or non use) is the subject of many debates. Whether its the benefits and dangers of driverless cars, deep fake media that can convincingly imitate a person's image and voice, or AI replacing entire segments of the job market and causing massive layoffs, there is no better time in history to involve and elevate human philosophers to moderate, interpret, and possibly even help us resolve these debates. Perhaps this will help to ensure that the best of humanity is imbedded into the "minds" of man's AI endeavors. 

Dr. David Vessey, Professor of Philosophy at Grand Valley State University, will present Philosophical Reflections on Artificial Intelligence where he will delve into issues like these and show us the philosophical perspective of AI in our world. 

Invocation: Dorothy Berg
Introduction: Jeff Kissinger

* We'll give away 10 Meijer gift cards at this event!

Artificial Intelligence

1. An AI algorithm walks into a bar and says "I’ll have what everyone else is having.
   ~ Anonymous

2. What is an AI’s favorite music? Algorhythms.
   ~ Anonymous

3. What do you call a blonde who dyes their hair brown? Artificial Intelligence.
   ~ Anonymous