At the Boston Global Forum conference “Governing the Future: AI, Democracy and Humanity” on April 30, 2024, Harvard University’s Loeb House, MIT Professor Nazli Choucri, BGF Board Member, emphasized the growing importance of knowledge in the era of Artificial Intelligence. In her presentation, Professor Choucri highlighted how AI is not just a technological advancement but a driving force behind the transition to a knowledge-based economy. She pointed out that AI’s capacity to enhance value-added activities, particularly in knowledge-intensive sectors such as law and medicine, is transforming how we approach economic development and sustainability.
Prof. Choucri stressed that the shift toward a knowledge economy, supported by AI, can significantly accelerate sustainable development. Unlike previous industrial transitions that often involved disruptive or destructive processes, she advocated for “creative instruction” rather than “creative destruction.” This approach suggests that AI should be harnessed not merely for efficiency but for fostering innovation and intellectual growth.
A significant portion of her address focused on the Knowledge Platform for AI, a new initiative launched by the BGF and AI World Society. Professor Choucri discussed how this platform is designed to be a core component in nurturing a knowledge-based economy. The platform aims to leverage AI to promote innovation and sustainable practices across various sectors, including law, medicine, and governance. By doing so, it seeks to align technological advancements with societal needs, ensuring that AI serves as a tool for the public good.
Please watch her full presentation here:
