On January 27, 2026, Taylor Black, Director of AI & Venture Ecosystems at Microsoft, will lead a discussion on the foundational principles of AI ethics at Wolff Auditorium, Jepson Center, starting at 7:00 PM. This event, organized by the Catholic Studies program, seeks to address the complex philosophical and ethical questions that arise as artificial intelligence increasingly permeates everyday life.
Black’s presentation will explore the dual nature of AI technologies, which promise efficiency and insight while also posing significant risks of unintended consequences. “As AI systems quietly permeate daily life—from the algorithms curating our news feeds to the automation guiding hiring decisions and policing—each promises efficiency and insight, but each also carries the risk of unintended consequences,” Black asserts. He emphasizes the urgent need for wisdom and moral discernment to ensure that these powerful technologies serve justice and the common good, rather than undermining them.
The discussion will engage attendees in a dialogue about their interactions with AI and the resources that the Catholic intellectual tradition can provide in navigating these challenges. Questions such as, “How do we respond to such challenges?” and “What can we learn from our ethical frameworks?” will be central to the event.
As director of AI & Venture Ecosystems in the Office of the Chief Technology Officer at Microsoft, Black explores innovation and corporate entrepreneurship. He is also the founding director of a new AI and ethics institute at the Catholic University of America, reflecting a deep commitment to integrating ethical considerations into technological advancements. In addition to his professional achievements, he is a deacon candidate in the Byzantine Catholic Eparchy of Phoenix.
The event aims to provide a platform for meaningful dialogue on how society can harness AI technology responsibly. Given the rapid development of AI capabilities, discussions around ethical use and oversight are becoming increasingly crucial. The implications of AI extend far beyond technical considerations, touching upon societal values and human dignity.
For those interested in participating, inquiries can be directed to Joe Mudd, the Catholic Studies program director, via email at [email protected] or by calling x6799. As AI continues to evolve, events like this serve as vital opportunities to reflect on our collective responsibilities in shaping a future where technology aligns with human values.
This conversation comes at a pivotal moment as companies across the tech landscape grapple with the ethical ramifications of their innovations. As organizations like OpenAI and Google navigate similar discussions, the call for ethical frameworks and accountability in AI use continues to grow.
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