Academic panel discussion - What AI means for society, culture and power

Join SOAS experts as they unpack how emerging technologies are transforming society and why these shifts matter for your future studies and the world you will shape.

Artificial intelligence is reshaping how we work, communicate and understand one another. For students thinking about advanced study, this moment presents urgent questions about justice, identity and the shifting balance of global power. This session brings SOAS perspectives together to explore how these changes are unfolding across regions and communities. 

What we will explore

• How emerging technologies are transforming labour, creativity and everyday life.
• How AI shapes identities, representation and voice in different cultural contexts.
• The impact of AI on global governance, economic inequality and social justice.
• The environmental footprint of AI including energy intensive data centres, their impact on local ecosystems and what this means for affected communities.
• Why interdisciplinary approaches are essential for making sense of rapid technological change. 

Who will be speaking

• Dr Yannis Dafermos: Head of the Department of Economics and Reader in Economics
• Anuja Suhasini Bajaj: Lecturer in Economics
• Dr Somnath Batabyal: Director of the Centre for AI Futures and Lecturer in Media in Development and International Journalism
• Dr Jonathan Ercanbrack: Reader in Transnational Financial Law
• Dr Dounia Mahlouly: Interim Chair for SOAS Department of Media Studies
• Dr Fabio Gygi: Senior Lecturer in Anthropology and Sociology

This event is ideal for Postgraduate Taught prospective students, offer holders and anyone exploring advanced study at SOAS who is curious about the social, cultural and political implications of AI. 

This event is part of our SOAS student webinar series, designed to provide you with all the essential information about being a SOAS student in London. Join us to explore topics like how to apply, secure funding, find accommodation, and enjoy student life once you arrive.