The Future of Learning & Culture in an AI World with Douglas Thomas | AI+C Global Relay 2025

Описание: In this session from the AI+Compassion Global Relay 2025 (North America Segment), Douglas Thomas explores the intersection of artificial intelligence, culture and the future of human learning.

As a Professor at USC Annenberg and co-author of A New Culture of Learning, Douglas Thomas has spent decades studying how technology shapes our society. In this talk, he addresses the cultural anxiety surrounding AI and proposes a shift in perspective: rather than fearing replacement, how can we use AI to cultivate imagination, play, and new forms of civic engagement? He discusses the "gamer disposition" in the context of AI; viewing these powerful tools not just as systems of efficiency, but as environments for exploration and growth.

Key Topics:

A New Culture of Learning: How AI challenges traditional education and opens new pathways for curiosity-driven learning.

Technology & Culture: Understanding AI's role in shaping (and being shaped by) human creativity and subcultures.

From Fear to Play: Moving beyond the dystopian narratives of AI to embrace a mindset of experimentation and "tinkering."

Civic Engagement: The potential for virtual worlds and AI to foster new forms of community and global connection.

About the Speaker: Douglas Thomas is an Associate Professor at the USC Annenberg School for Communication and the USC Iovine and Young Academy. A pioneer in the study of digital culture, he is the author of Hacker Culture and co-author (with John Seely Brown) of the seminal book, A New Culture of Learning. His research focuses on the "gamer disposition," cyberculture, and the transformative power of technology on education and society. He is a founding editor of Games & Culture and a frequent speaker on the future of innovation.

About AI+Compassion Global Forum: The AI+Compassion Global Forum unites innovators, policymakers, and cultural leaders to explore how artificial intelligence can serve humanity and the planet. The forum aims to shift the global narrative from fear and competition to sustainability, cultural flourishing, and compassion.

🔗 Learn More & Connect:

Website: https://compassionai.io/

Douglas Thomas at USC: https://iovine-young.usc.edu/people/d...

Douglas Thomas on LinkedIn:   / douglas-thomas-621837