Bridging the Gaps: A Portal for Curious Minds Dr Waseem Akhtar

As fresh algorithms and new analytical methods emerge, existing datasets can uncover insights beyond their original purpose. Regardless of their intended use, data often possess hidden potentials and always have a “secret life”. “How this data will be used, by other people in other times and places, has profound implications for every aspect of our lives—from our intimate relationships to our professional lives to our political systems”, argue Professor Aram Sinnreich and Jesse Gilbert in their new book “The Secret Life of Data: Navigating Hype and Uncertainty in the Age of Algorithmic Surveillance”. This phenomenon raises various moral, ethical, and legal questions: Should we use datasets for unexpected and unforeseen insights? Should we create new frameworks to control and regulate using datasets for purposes beyond their original intent? Ignoring opportunities to analyse data in new ways might limit their potential, but pursuing them introduces ethical dilemmas. In this episode of Bridging the Gaps, I speak with Professor Aram Sinnreich and Jesse Gilbert.

Aram Sinnreich is an author, professor, and musician. He is Chair of Communication Studies at American University. Jesse Gilbert is an interdisciplinary artist exploring the intersection of visual art, sound, and software design at his firm Dark Matter Media. He was the founding Chair of the Media Technology department at Woodbury University.

I begin the conversation by setting the stage for our listeners and delving into the idea of the "secret life of data" as discussed in the book. We then delve deeper into the nature and scale of the challenge posed by this phenomenon. One key point highlighted in the book is that the challenge is primarily conceptual—we're uncertain about what exactly we're aiming to control, handle, and regulate. We thoroughly explore this aspect.

To address this "conceptual challenge," the book provides a comprehensive overview of various frameworks and approaches that have been developed and are currently utilised to tackle similar challenges. The book then extends these concepts to envision and propose a framework that could aid us in addressing this particular challenge. We discuss in detail a number of existing frameworks outlined in the book, and then explore the possibilities to address these emerging challenges. Overall, this conversation has been immensely interesting and enlightening.


Complement this discussion with “Dark Data: Why What You Don’t Know Matters” with Professor David Handavailable at:
https://www.bridgingthegaps.ie/2020/03/dark-data-why-what-you-dont-know-matters-with-professor-david-hand/
And then listen to Reclaiming Human Intelligence and “How to Stay Smart in a Smart World” with Prof. Gerd Gigerenzer available at:
https://www.bridgingthegaps.ie/2023/04/reclaiming-human-intelligence-and-how-to-stay-smart-in-a-smart-world-with-prof-gerd-gigerenzer/

As humanity sets its sights on venturing beyond the confines of Earth, it is immensely important to acknowledge that the journey to space is not merely a technological feat, but a profoundly human endeavour. From pinpointing destinations to preparing flight plans, from developing generational ships to designing habitats, from selecting teams to establishing communities, there is a crucial element that must not be overlooked: the human dimension. From fostering a sense of community and shared purpose among spacefarers to grappling with the enforcement of laws and the establishment of governance structures in extraterrestrial settlements, addressing these aspects is essential for the success and sustainability of our off-world endeavours. Erika Nesvold's insightful book “Off-Earth: Ethical Questions and Quandaries for Living in Outer Space” serves as a timely reminder that space exploration isn't solely about the scientific and technical aspects—it's about grappling with the very human dilemmas that accompany such endeavours. In the episode of Bridging the Gaps, I speak with Dr Erika Nesvold.

Dr Erika Nesvold is an astrophysicist who has worked as a researcher at NASA Goddard and the Carnegie Institution for Science. She is a developer for Universe Sandbox, a physics-based space simulator. She is a co-founder of the nonprofit organisation the JustSpace Alliance. Erika is the creator and host of the podcast Making New Worlds.

We began by discussing the significance of understanding the human aspect of space exploration. The book covers a wide variety of topics and in our discussion we touch upon ethical, social and legal complexities that must be understood and adopted or redeveloped for our extraterrestrial settlements. We also discuss the concepts and principles that can be borrowed from the laws and charters devised during humanity's exploration of open seas and oceans. Central to our discussion is the importance of initiating a dialogue now to foster an understanding of how our humanity intersects with the challenges and opportunities presented by space exploration. This understanding, we discuss, is fundamental in shaping a future that upholds ethical principles and fosters social equity.

Complement this discussion with “A Traveller’s Guide to the Stars” with Physicist, Author and Nasa Technologist Les Johnson available at:
https://www.bridgingthegaps.ie/2023/03/a-travellers-guide-to-the-stars-with-physicist-author-and-nasa-technologist-les-johnson/
And then listen to ““The Next 500 Years: Engineering Life to Reach New Worlds” with Professor Christopher Mason available at:
https://www.bridgingthegaps.ie/2022/05/the-next-500-years-engineering-life-to-reach-new-worlds-with-professor-christopher-mason/

Artificial intelligence (AI) has emerged as one of the most remarkable advancements of our time. It is a powerful evolving technology that has transformed the way we interact with machines and perceive the capabilities of computer systems. However, with this newfound power comes a natural apprehension. There is a noticeable fear surrounding the unintentional consequences and unintended implications of Artificial Intelligence. As this technology becomes increasingly integrated into our daily lives, the question is: how justified are our fears and just how tangible, and how real is the threat posed by this revolutionary technology? Perhaps, the underlying cause of these fears is our tendency to unjustifiably attribute human traits to the machines we may construct.

A compelling new perspective suggests that human intelligence will evolve alongside digital technology, leading to a transformative coevolution of human and artificial intelligence. This augmented intelligence will reshape our thinking and behaviour. In his recent book “Evolutionary Intelligence: How Technology Will Make Us Smarter” Professor W. Russell Neuman offers a remarkably optimistic perspective where computational intelligence not only addresses the well-known limitations of human judgement but also enhances decision-making capabilities and expands our capacity for action. In this episode of Bridging the Gaps, I speak with Professor W. Russell Neuman. We discuss how our future depends on our ability to computationally compensate for the limitations of the human cognitive system. We explore Neuman’s viewpoint that “if intelligence is the capacity to match means with ends, then augmented intelligence can offer the ability to adapt to changing environments as we face the ultimate challenge of long-term survival”. Professor Neuman's distinctive approach to explain complex concepts through narratives and anecdotes adds an engaging layer of interest to this discussion. This highly informative discussion makes a powerful argument for the continued coexistence of humans and their machines.

W. Russell Neuman is Professor of Media Technology at New York University. He is a specialist in new media and digital education. He is a founding faculty of the MIT Media Lab. He served as a Senior Policy Analyst in the White House Office of Science and Technology Policy, working in the areas of information technology, broadband policy, and technologies for border security.

Complement this discussion with “Reclaiming Human Intellgience” with Professor Gerd Gigerenzer available at:
https://www.bridgingthegaps.ie/2023/04/reclaiming-human-intelligence-and-how-to-stay-smart-in-a-smart-world-with-prof-gerd-gigerenzer/
And then listen to “Working with AI: Real Stories of Human-Machine Collaboration” with Professor Thomas Davenport and Professor Steven Miller available at:
https://www.bridgingthegaps.ie/2022/10/working-with-ai-real-stories-of-human-machine-collaboration-thomas-davenport-steven-miller/

Has human behaviour pushed our world to the edge, especially the mistaken belief that the earth’s resources are infinite? And can a shift in human behaviour rescue us? The challenges we face, from collapsing social structures to the climate crisis, have been centuries in the making. It is immensely critical that we take immediate and decisive actions; we must transform ourselves to improve our circumstances. In his new book “Design for a Better World: Meaningful, Sustainable, Humanity Centered” Don Norman offers an insightful analysis of our missteps and provides a clear remedy for making things better. The book suggests that the pivotal factor for change lies in human behaviour. The book explores this through three main themes: meaning, sustainability, and humanity-centeredness. In this episode of Bridging the Gaps, I speak with professor Don Norman. We dig deep on these three themes and explore the ideas that a meaningful quality of life, rather than mere monetary gain, restructuring our lifestyles to enhance environmental protection, and adopting an inclusive approach that encompasses all of humanity, can empower us to address the challenges confronting us.

Don Norman is Distinguished Professor Emeritus of Cognitive Science and Psychology and founding director of the Design Lab at the University of California, San Diego. Business Week has named Norman one of the world's most influential designers. He was an Apple Vice President, has been an advisor and board member for numerous companies, and has three honorary degrees. His numerous books have been translated into over 20 languages including “The Design of Everyday Things” and “Living with Complexity”.


We start off by examining the pervasive artificiality surrounding us. Misplaced and disjointed elements, such as non-native plants, high density concrete structures and other artefacts, contribute to environments saturated with artificial constructs. Furthermore, we delve into how our metrics of success are also influenced by this artificiality. We measure our success by using metrics that don’t encompass what really matters. This artificiality has consequently led to an unsustainable sociotechnical system. We touch upon the ramifications of distorted capitalism before delving deeply into the central themes of the book: meaning, sustainability, and humanity-centeredness. Exploring the human quest for significance, we discuss why a sense of meaning is essential for every aspect of our existence. Addressing sustainability, we discuss how to rectify the harm inflicted upon the ecosystem. Finally, we discuss a humanity-centered approach to crafting artefacts and lifestyles that offers a pathway to rectify our current predicament. This discussion has been both enlightening and invigorating.


Complement this discussion with “Philosophy of Technology” with Professor Peter-Paul Verbeek available at:
https://www.bridgingthegaps.ie/2021/01/philosophy-of-technology-with-professor-peter-paul-verbeek/
And then listen to “The Good-Enough Life” with Dr Avram Alpert available at:
https://www.bridgingthegaps.ie/2023/09/the-good-enough-life-with-dr-avram-alpert/

The most powerful tool often comes with the greatest challenges. In recent times Machine learning has emerged as the world's leading general-purpose technology, yet its implementation remains notably complex. Beyond the realm of Big Tech and a select few leading enterprises, many machine learning initiatives don’t succeed, failing to deliver on their potential. What's lacking? A specialised business approach and development & deployment strategy tailored for widespread adoption. In his recent book “The AI Playbook: Mastering the Rare Art of Machine Learning Deployment” acclaimed author Eric Siegel introduces a comprehensive six-step methodology for guiding machine learning projects from inception to implementation. The book showcases the methodology through both successful and unsuccessful anecdotes, featuring insightful case studies from renowned companies such as UPS, FICO, and prominent dot-coms. In this episode of Bridging the Gaps, I speak with Eric Siege. We discuss this disciplined approach that empowers business professionals, and establishes a sorely needed strategic framework for data professionals.

Eric Siegel, Ph.D., is a leading consultant and former Columbia University professor who helps companies deploy machine learning. He is the founder of the long-running Machine Learning Week conference series and its new sister, Generative AI World, the instructor of the acclaimed online course “Machine Learning Leadership and Practice – End-to-End Mastery,” executive editor of The Machine Learning Times, and a frequent keynote speaker.


We begin our discussion by addressing Eric's notable observation, highlighted both in his presentations and book, that the “AI Hype” is a distraction for companies. Eric elaborates on this notion, providing detailed insights. Additionally, we explore the suggestion to shift focus from the broad term "AI" to the more specific "Machine Learning." Our conversation then delves into the challenges faced by companies and professionals in conceptualising and deploying AI-driven ideas and solutions. This then leads to the consideration of whether forming specialised teams and developing focused strategies are necessary to address these challenges effectively. Next, we delve into the intricacies of the six-step BizML process introduced by Eric in his book, comparing it to the concept of MLOps. We then thoroughly examine the BizML process, dissecting its components and implications. Overall, this has been a highly enlightening and informative discussion.

Complement this discussion with ““Working with AI: Real Stories of Human-Machine Collaboration” with Professor Thomas Davenport and Professor Steven Miller” available at:
https://www.bridgingthegaps.ie/2022/10/working-with-ai-real-stories-of-human-machine-collaboration-thomas-davenport-steven-miller/
And then listen to ““Machines like Us: TOWARD AI WITH COMMON SENSE” with Professor Ronald Brachman” available at:
https://www.bridgingthegaps.ie/2022/06/machines-like-us-toward-ai-with-common-sense-with-professor-ronald-brachman/

Science communication plays an important role in bridging the gap between researchers and the general public, fostering understanding, engagement, and appreciation for scientific explorations and advancements. In an era where science and technology shape every aspect of our lives, effective communication of research findings is more critical than ever. This is also a time where there are conflicting views about scientific work and polarizations in societies. This makes effective science communication even more important not only to ensure that scientific knowledge is accessible to all, but also to empower individuals to make informed decisions, influences policy-making, and fosters trust in the scientific community. However, effective science communication goes beyond simply disseminating information; it requires clarity, creativity, and engagement strategies tailored to diverse audiences. By employing clear language and compelling storytelling researchers can effectively communicate their findings, thereby enhancing public awareness and understanding of the profound impact that science has on society. In his recent book “Sharing Our Science: How to Write and Speak STEM” Professor Brandon Brown, a scientist-turned-writing teacher, provides a highly valuable resource for STEM practitioners aiming to effectively convey their technical work to both specialised and general audiences. In this episode of Bridging the Gaps I speak with Professor Brandon Brown; we discuss this personal, practical, and inspirational guide for scientists and technical professionals seeking to enhance their written and oral communication skills in STEM fields.

Brandon Brown is a Professor of Physics and communications specialist at the University of San Francisco. He is an excellent science communicator. He has written for publications such as Slate, Smithsonian, and Scientific American and served as Deputy Director at the Green Science Policy Institute and a Senior Writing Coach for the Strictly Speaking Group.

We begin by exploring the significance of storytelling in effective science communication, delving into diverse tools and approaches such as tension and narrative to enhance the communication of scientific concepts. We further examine the utilisation of relatable examples, including simplifying large numbers and intricate comparisons like the size of an atom relative to its nucleus, to improve clarity and facilitate comprehension. We also address the detrimental effects of disinformation on science communication, which can lead to societal polarisation and divisions. We also reflect on Professor Brandon Brown's personal encounters, highlighting how adept communication of challenging facts can profoundly influence individuals. This has been both informative and insightful discussion.


Complement this discussion with “Reclaiming Human Intelligence and “On Public Communication of Science and Technology with Professor Bruce Lewenstein” available at:
https://www.bridgingthegaps.ie/2022/02/on-public-communication-of-science-and-technology-with-professor-bruce-lewenstein/
And then listen to ““The Joy of Science” with Professor Jim Al-Khalili” available at:
https://www.bridgingthegaps.ie/2022/05/the-joy-of-science-with-professor-jim-al-khalili/