Sci-Fi or Sci-Fact? Scientists to Demystify AI on the Big Screen

From the enigmatic HAL 9000 in 2001: A Space Odyssey to the sentient machines that program reality in The Matrix, Hollywood has long been fascinated with the concept of artificial intelligence (AI). Yet, as these fictional narratives push the boundaries of possibility, real-world advances in AI raise new and complex questions.

As part of Sci-Fi to Sci-Fact: Artificial Intelligence on the Big Screen, a panel of Caltech experts—moderated by Latif Nasser, co-host of the award-winning WNYC Studios show Radiolab—will use pop culture storytelling as a springboard to discuss the state of AI technology and where it is heading; whether we can trust AI; and how to protect against misinformation, bias, and other challenges. Audience members will have the opportunity to ask questions during the event. Guests who arrive at 11:30 a.m. for pre-show activities also can engage with AI technology themselves.

Watch clips from classic sci-fi movies such as The Terminator and Blade Runner at the event, which will take place in Beckman Auditorium on Caltech's campus on Saturday, September 23, from 1 to 2:30 p.m. The event is free, but tickets are required. Guests are invited to arrive early for activities, food, and merchandise outside the auditorium starting at 11:30 a.m.

Panelists:

• Anima Anandkumar, Bren Professor of Computing and Mathematical Sciences
• Georgia Gkioxari, Assistant Professor of Computing and Mathematical Sciences and Electrical Engineering; William H. Hurt Scholar
• Eric Mazumdar, Assistant Professor of Computing and Mathematical Sciences and Economics
• Yisong Yue, Professor of Computing and Mathematical Sciences

This event is free and open to the public, but tickets are required. The event is in-person only. Those who prefer to register over the phone can call the Caltech Ticket Office at 626-395-4652.