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Book discussion

Discussion of "The Singularity Is Nearer: When We Merge With AI"

Agenda

7:15 - 8:30 p.m. Discussion

Event Summary

Join us for a fascinating discussion of Ray Kurzweil's latest book, "The Singularity Is Nearer: When We Merge With AI," to be moderated by Mike Ignatowski of AMD. In this compelling follow-up to his groundbreaking “The Singularity Is Near, Kurzweil explores the rapid pace of technological progress and argues that we are rapidly approaching a point where artificial intelligence will surpass human intelligence, and be used to augment it. Kurzweil discusses related technologies–nanotechnology, 3D printing, clean energy, biotech–that, together with AI, will transform what it means to be human, and the impact on society. Our minds, bodies, and world are about to change in fundamental ways, within our lifetimes!

Whether you've read the book or not, everyone is invited to attend and participate in this thought-provoking conversation. Mike Ignatowski will guide us through the key ideas and implications of Kurzweil's work, and we encourage you to share your thoughts and questions. Don't miss this opportunity to engage with other curious minds and explore the future of technology and humanity.

Attendance Instructions

Online via Google Meet Once you register via Ticketbud, you will receive the direct link in your confirmation email. You will also receive the link in a reminder email one day before the event.

Moderator

  • Mike Ignatowski

    Mike Ignatowski

    Senior Fellow, AMD

    Michael Ignatowski is a Senior Fellow at AMD Research in Austin, where he leads the research work in advanced memory architecture for high performance computers. Mike was involved in AMD’s role in winning the bid for the Frontier Exascale system to be installed at the Oak Ridge National Laboratory next year. Before joining AMD 10 years ago, Mike worked at IBM in upstate New York for 27 years in advanced development and research. Mike has a master’s degree in computer engineering from the University of Michigan and a bachelor’s degree in physics from Michigan State University.

    Outside of work, Mike serves on the board for Common Ground for Texans (CG4TX.org), a local group dedicated to promoting civil discourse among diverse communities and seeking common ground solutions toward a healthy democracy. He also serves on the board of 350-Austin, a local chapter of the international 350.org organization dedicated to reducing the threat of climate change. Mike is also the former president of the Central Texas Chapter of the World Future Society.

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