Stephen Hawking Delivers Keynote at Web Summit Opening Night

– “We stand on the threshold of a brave new world” –

– “Our AI systems must do what we want them to do, for the benefit of humanity” –

Professor Hawking joined Web Summit’s opening night ceremony via broadcast, following remarks by AI entrepreneur and Feedzai CEO Nuno Sebastião

Lisbon, November 6 – Professor Stephen Hawking delivered a keynote address on artificial intelligence (AI) via video at Web Summit opening night. Professor Hawking was invited to speak at Web Summit by Feedzai, an AI company specialising in fraud prevention.

A capacity audience of 15,000 people packed out Lisbon’s Altice Arena to hear Professor Hawking’s thoughts and aspirations about AI and its role in the future of our society, as well as words of warning while addressing the need for ethics and controllability in the development of AI.

After being introduced by Paddy Cosgrave, Web Summit CEO, and Nuno Sebastião, Feedzai CEO, Professor Hawking said:

“We cannot predict what we might achieve when our own minds are amplified by AI.  Perhaps with the tools of this new technological revolution, we will be able to undo some of the damage done to the natural world by the last one, industrialisation. We will aim to finally eradicate disease and poverty. Every aspect of our lives will be transformed.”

While also warning about potential risks, Professor Hawking said that:

“I am an optimist and I believe that we can create AI for the good of the world. That it can work in harmony with us. We simply need to be aware of the dangers, identify them, employ the best possible practice and management, and prepare for its consequences well in advance. Perhaps some of you listening today will already have solutions or answers to the many questions AI poses.

“We all have a role to play in making sure that we, and the next generation, have not just the opportunity, but the determination, to engage fully with the study of science at an early level, so that we can go on to fulfil our potential, and create a better world for the whole human race. We need to take learning beyond a theoretical discussion of how AI should be and take action to make sure we plan for how it can be. You all have the potential to push the boundaries of what is acceptable, or expected, and to think big. We stand on the threshold of a brave new world. It is an exciting if precarious, place to be and you are the pioneers.”

Nuno Sebastião, Feedzai CEO and co-founder, opened the session saying:

“We’re honored that Professor Hawking accepted Feedzai’s invitation to speak at Web Summit and to join me and our team in promoting the development of AI that is ethical and controllable.

“That’s why Feedzai is taking a stand pushing for an AI code of ethics, where we all commit to building systems that are fair, verifiable, benefit society, and do no harm.”

Concluding Paddy Cosgrave, Web Summit CEO, said:

“Professor Hawking is one of the great minds of our generation and when he speaks we all should listen. AI could be the greatest or the worst thing to happen our society since the industrial revolution. Regulation and agreed ethical practices are essential to ensure we protect the rights of all in society because this is not the future this is the now, AI is already permeating into every aspect of our lives.  

“Are governments and industry aware of this, and are they prepared?  These are the important societal questions that are going to be asked and answered at Web Summit. I hope Professor Hawking’s remarks spark debate amongst our speakers and attendees both on the challenges and also the opportunities of thoughtful AI development.”