Intelligent Systems: Past, Present and Future!

Abstract

The informal talk will discuss the evolution - over the last few decades - of systems that purport to exhibit behavior that many humans would consider useful, clever or intelligent. Starting with a framework that considers the world’s building blocks to be atoms, bits and cells, I will discuss the implications of innovation around these building blocks, fueled by AI. I will articulate metaphors for the use of AI systems and enumerate a few future Grand Challenges, which may serve as a compass for students and faculty with respect to research directions. A perspective on different industry use cases will also be provided potentially helping students calibrate and hone in on career opportunities, congruent with their strengths, interests and where the field is headed. I will also touch upon the new AI being Augmented Intelligence via the HuMachine framework and its broad implications for technology and society.

Speaker Bio: Dr. Ganesh Mani is on the adjunct Faculty of Carnegie Mellon University and is considered a thought leader in imbuing AI into many areas, spanning Health, Wealth and Wisdom. He has worn multiple hats including entrepreneur, investment manager and researcher. His articles have appeared in many forums, ranging from Neural Computation to Bloomberg Opinion. He has a PhD in AI / Computer Science and an MBA in Finance from the University of Wisconsin-Madison; in addition to an undergraduate degree in Computer Science from the Indian Institute of Technology, Bombay. He has consulted for and serves on the advisory board of many leading institutions.