DemCP Open Research Lecture - PD Dr. phil. habil. Jan G. Michel: Machine Discoverers – the Future of Science?

This Open Research Lecture is open for all members and students of the Faculty of Arts and the Faculty of Philosophy.

Room 1313.0338 can only be reached via the stairwell/lift at the very front of the Harmonie building. If you are unfamiliar with this location, please ask for directions at the reception desk.

Abstract

Now more than ever, humanity is facing enormous challenges, as indicated in the UN’s Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). However, we will hardly be able to address these challenges and achieve these goals without scientific progress that leads us to new inventions and innovations. But how can we succeed in making the discoveries and breakthroughs we need for this? Could machines be part of the solution, maybe even as machine discoverers? And is this the future of science?

By clarifying what is required to make a scientific discovery and addressing the question of whether machines are able to fulfill these requirements, Jan Michel offers a diagnosis of what to expect from artificial discoverers in science.

About the speaker

PD Dr. phil. habil. Jan G. Michel teaches at the Heinrich Heine University Düsseldorf, Germany. The focus of his research is at the intersection of philosophy of mind, philosophy of language, and philosophy of science, in particular on AI and discovery. He also works on environmental philosophy.