On July 26, 2024, the kick-off symposium of the Center for Interdisciplinary Information, titled ‘How Can the Sciences and Humanities Co-create? Exploring the Synergy and Ways to Foster It,’ was held.

 

Mariko Hasegawa
President of the Japan Arts Council

“What Does the Integration of the Sciences and Humanities Mean?”

(Summary)
Recently, the importance of “integration of the sciences and humanities” and “holistic knowledge” has been emphasized. But what does this truly mean? Has the divide between the sciences and humanities grown so wide that it has hindered progress? Is this why we are now advocating for their integration to create holistic knowledge? To answer these questions, we must explore why the divide between the sciences and humanities has become so pronounced, the historical background behind this, and what is needed to overcome it. What kinds of shifts in thinking or changes in societal structures are required? In this lecture, I will reflect on these issues based on my experiences.

 

Satoshi Kurihara
Professor, Faculty of Science and Technology, Keio University

“What Does the Integration of the Sciences and Humanities Mean in AI Research?”

(Summary)
In both AI research and its societal implementation, humans are the central focus, whether creating or using AI. One could say that AI as a discipline is about understanding humans. The rise of generative AI has sparked global interest, both positive and negative, but generative AI is fundamentally built upon data derived from human activities. As AI continues to evolve, the question arises: how should we further develop AI, and how do we ensure attention to ethical considerations during this process? To address these questions, the integration of the sciences and humanities in AI research and development becomes even more crucial. In this talk, I will explore the reasons behind this importance.

 

Kaori Karasawa
Professor, Graduate School of Humanities and Sociology, The University of Tokyo

“Science and Technology ELSI/RRI and the Integration of the Sciences and Humanities”

(Summary)
While advancements in science and technology bring us significant benefits, they also require us to address various challenges, such as ethical, legal, and social issues (ELSI). In order to clarify these ELSI concerns and promote responsible research and innovation (RRI), it is essential to collaborate not only within the relevant scientific and technological fields but also with the humanities and social sciences, which have long accumulated knowledge about people and society. By recognizing that the essence of ELSI/RRI involves the exploration of fundamental human and societal values, this talk will explore the importance of integrating the sciences and humanities.

 

Roundtable Discussion

• Mariko Hasegawa (President of the Japan Arts Council)
• Satoshi Kurihara (Professor, Faculty of Science and Technology, Keio University)
• Kaori Karasawa (Professor, Graduate School of Humanities and Sociology, The University of Tokyo)
• Reoto Murata (Professor Emeritus, Meiji Gakuin University; Former President)

(Moderator: Tatsuya Kameda)