Alessandra Sala Joins Italo-Irish AI Group – IIAIG – as Co-Patron

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Dublin, August 28th, 2024

The Italo-Irish AI Group #IIAIG arises from a collaboration fostered by the San Patrizio Livorno Festival (SPLF), co-directed by Catherine Dunne, and of which John Banville is Lifetime Patron, aimed at integrating humanities into the AI discourse. [Download the press release file]

I am pleased to announce that Dr. Alessandra Sala (Co-Chair of UNESCO Women for Ethical AI; President of Women in AI) has joined the Italo-Irish AI Group (#IIAIG) as Co-Patron. Alessandra’s expertise in AI ethics, policy, and her strong commitment to diversity and gender balance make her an invaluable addition to our group. Her involvement marks a significant step forward as we continue to explore the complex intersections of creativity, ethics, and technology in AI.

Having Alessandra on board as a Patron, alongside John Banville, our esteemed literary Patron and SPLF’s Lifetime Patron, is truly an honour. Their combined influence will guide and inspire us as we push the boundaries of what AI can achieve, not just technically, but ethically and creatively. Alessandra will play a crucial role in ensuring that our conversations and initiatives within the IIAI Group are inclusive and equitable. Her insights will encourage us to consider the broader societal impacts of AI, ensuring that this powerful technology benefits everyone, regardless of background or identity.

I am personally delighted to have both Alessandra and John as Patrons. As someone who has long straddled the worlds of philosophy, science, and technology, I believe it’s time to move beyond old dichotomies and work together to create an ‘ecology of mind’—a concept Gregory Bateson emphasised as crucial for understanding and preserving the intricate balance of life.

This holistic approach is exactly what we need to apply to AI today. Addressing the ethical, creative, and legal aspects of AI will define and shape its future, ensuring that the balance tips in favour of opportunity over bias, disruption, and inequality.

Let’s start the ‘metalogue’ on AI, deeply engaging with the perspectives Bateson encouraged us to explore. With the support of patrons like Alessandra Sala and John Banville, I am confident that the Italo-Irish AI Group will play a leading role in this crucial dialogue.

Massimiliano ‘Max’ Roveri (max @ q-rob . com)
SPLF Co-Director; IIAIG Founder