Artificial Intelligence can help us improve the world. However, it should not be an algorithm driving these changes but rather the creativity and curiosity of human beings.

This is the central theme of the talk with which Maximo Ibarra, CEO of Engineering, will close “Filosofie sotto le stelle” on August 6 in Rome, an event promoted by Rome Capital (with free admission until seats are filled). During the evening titled “Menti,” taking place in the stunning setting of the Stadio Palatino (at 9:00 PM), Maximo Ibarra will discuss how innovation and new technologies can nurture and support our desire for knowledge. He will also explain how Artificial Intelligence can enhance our creativity, allowing us to engage in unprecedented dialogues with the past.

During the evening, Ibarra will simulate a conversation with the avatars of Plato and Confucius. Created specifically for the festival by combining Generative Artificial Intelligence and Extended Reality, the two avatars have been trained to provide responses in line with the thoughts of these philosophers, thus becoming an example of how the computational power of Artificial Intelligence can be channeled into experiences that merge innovation with classicism.

Maximo Ibarra explains: “Artificial Intelligence and cutting-edge technologies have reached a level of maturity and composability that allows us to re-imagine how we relate to the past and how we design our future. This is a radical change that should enhance our humanity and be guided by a sense of responsibility necessary to ensure that the great opportunities for growth and well-being offered by digital technology become a shared asset.”

The “Menti” evening will feature, alongside Maximo Ibarra, David Chalmers, professor of philosophy and neural sciences at New York University, and Sofia Bonicalzi, associate professor at the Department of Philosophy, Communication, and Entertainment at Roma Tre University. It coincides with the XXV World Congress of Philosophy – Rome 2024, which will be held until August 8 at the Sapienza University of Rome.

Engineering, a leader in digitalization processes for businesses and public administrations, is also participating in the World Congress of Philosophy and will present an immersive virtual installation in the exhibition spaces adjacent to the Rectorate's Aula Magna, offering visitors the opportunity to engage with and ask questions to the avatars of Plato and Confucius.