What does ethical development and use of artificial intelligence (AI) look like? What are the cultural and historical implications of its use? These are just a couple of questions to be discussed at the Humanities Perspectives on AI Summer Institute at the University of Utah. Applications are now open for the 3-week long institute, but the deadline to apply is March 5th.  

The institute is made possible through a grant from the National Endowment for the Humanities (NEH) awarded to Elizabeth Callaway, Assistant Professor from Department of English, and Rebekah Cummings, Director of Digital Matters at the J. Willard Marriott Library, the heads of the program. Applicants from outside of the University of Utah are encouraged to apply, especially if they have an interest in the intersection of AI and humanities. “We hope to receive a wide variety of applicants,” explained Callaway. “The humanities cover a broad range of different approaches that will be critical to the development of responsible, humane AI.”  

While most of the time will be spent at Digital Matters, several field trips are planned to utilize Utah’s unique resources such as Adobe, the Kennecott copper mine and Antelope Island. Additionally, an exhibit is planned to be hosted at the Marriott Library highlighting the participants’ research into responsible AI.   

“The Marriott Library is pleased to host this Summer Institute at Digital Matters. By bringing together library and humanities expertise on responsible AI and the broader information environment in which AI sits, I am convinced that the Summer Institute will be a resounding success,” said Sarah Shreeves, dean of the Marriott Library and university librarian. “The exhibit that will launch at the end of the Institute will be an excellent opportunity for the whole community to learn from the participants.” 

If you have questions about the application or institute, please email aiandhumanities@gmail.com.