The Lions Clubs of the Garda Bresciano area organized a significant moment of discussion on the crucial themes of Artificial Intelligence and Emotional Intelligence. This initiative, aligned with the national study theme of the Lions, took place at the university campus in Brescia, hosted by the Faculty of Law and the university foundation. The event offered a multidisciplinary perspective on AI, addressing areas ranging from culture to technology, philosophy to ethics, aiming to provide useful insights for understanding and reflecting on the implications of these developments for contemporary society. The conference featured an excellent group of speakers: Maurizio Tira, Nicoletta Cusano, Francesco Morace, Arturo Di Corinto, Daniele Monteleone, Salvatore Frattallone, Cosimo Accoto, and Luigi Della Bora.
Technological Developments and Environmental Implications
Among the focal points of the debate was the rapid acceleration of technological developments, the exponential increase in the volume of available data, and the advancement of computing and transmission capabilities. At the same time, attention was drawn to the environmental challenges associated with the extensive use of Artificial Intelligence, highlighting the need for optimization of energy and computational resources for a more sustainable approach.
The Role of Philosophy in the AI Landscape
Several presentations emphasized the indispensable role of philosophy—whether theoretical, scientific, or moral—in deepening the questions raised by AI. Its ability to serve as a foundational, conceptual, and normative clarifier in the face of new technological frontiers and their ethical implications was highlighted.
Impact on Society, Economy, and Education
The conference extensively explored the repercussions of Artificial Intelligence on various critical sectors. Discussions included the impact on the socio-political and economic fabric, as well as the challenges and opportunities in the fields of education and healthcare. These analyses aim to understand how the introduction of AI is reshaping established structures and processes.
Navigating Modernity and Valuing Human Relationships
A theme that emerged from the discussions was the transition to what has been termed “gaseous modernity,” an era characterized by instability and disorientation. In this context, the importance of cultivating and valuing concepts such as lightness and, above all, the centrality of human relationships in the face of the digital advance was reiterated.
AI, Emotional Intelligence, and Mental Well-Being
A significant portion of the discussion was dedicated to the interaction between Artificial Intelligence and Emotional Intelligence. The social and emotional reactions generated by the increasing use of digital tools were analyzed, along with the potential risks that unconscious usage may pose to individuals’ mental health.
Misinformation and Digital Security
Another crucial aspect addressed was the dangers inherent in the distorted use of Artificial Intelligence algorithms for purposes of misinformation, propaganda, and manipulation, particularly concerning false content (fake news) and deepfakes. Simultaneously, the dual role of AI in the field of digital security was examined: on one hand, as a defense tool, and on the other, as a potential vehicle for computer crimes, highlighting the need to balance innovation with the protection of individual rights.
AI and the “Provocations” to Humanity
The discussions also touched on the intellectual “provocations” that Artificial Intelligence poses to the traditional conception of humanity, Italian Version
