Adventures in Ideas: Humanities Series Presents 'Artificial Intelligence in Science Fiction and Film' September 22

SALISBURY, MD---From Frankenstein to Westworld, the theory of consciousness and the ethical implications of the creation of artificial intelligence have long been a tradition in entertainment and fiction.

Drs. T. Ross Leasure of Salisbury University’s English Department and Timothy Stock of the Philosophy Department examine these themes during “Artificial Intelligence in Science Fiction and Film: Pain and the Pathways to Personhood,” the next topic in SU’s Adventures in Ideas: Humanities Series.

Their presentation is 10 a.m.-3 p.m. Saturday, September 22, in Conway Hall Room 179.

The speakers examine the notion and exploration of a “maze of consciousness” — a central theme of HBO’s recent Westworld reboot. Citing works such as Isaac Asimov’s Bicentennial Man and Alex Garland’s Ex Machina, they also look at the ways in which artificial intelligence incorporated into fiction have challenged assumptions about “personhood.”

Sponsored by SU’s Charles R. and Martha N. Fulton School of Liberal Arts and the Whaley Family Foundation, cost is $30, including a continental breakfast and lunch. Advance reservations are required. The public is invited.

To RSVP call 410-543-6450 or email Donna Carey. For more information visit the SU website.