About
Moderator, Journalist, Writer and AI+ 2023 Host
Ruth Astrid L. Sæter is a former journalist with many years of experience from Norwegian newspapers and the monthly magazine HENNE. Since 2009, she has worked within the field of communication, primarily focusing on climate, energy and the environment. Among her former employers are the environmental foundation Bellona and the Norwegian Research Council.
Today, Ruth Astrid is a freelance moderator and writer. She was the host of AI+ in 2021, 2022 and 2023, and will continue her excellent effort in 2024.
Q & A with Ruth Astrid Sæter
1. Tell us about your first encounter with artificial intelligence (AI)?
I guess that my first encounter with AI is something I was (and still am) unaware of, in terms of algorithms and big data combined. Google, face recognition on my phone (not very intelligent, btw, it keeps denying me access to my own phone), those things.
2. What is your competence within the field of AI?
No formal competence, just pure curiosity.
3. Why did you develop an interest in AI?
I find it both fascinating and a bit scary to think of all the possibilities that exist within this field; and I want to be updated on its development in order to make informed decisions in the future. Also, when you know that humans use only 10-12 percent of our brain capacity, I think there must be huge potential in that void – and that we might learn from the machines?!
4. Can you recommend a relevant book or film about AI?
Sorry, am not that into the topic. Yet.
5. Why should we, or should we not, be afraid of AI?
We should be afraid IF humanity proves unable to control the use of AI – but then again, AI should be used to our benefit. And with “our”, I mean the globe – including all living species, not only humans. If AI can help us take care of our world, there should be nothing to fear.
6. Which field, in your opinion, has the most to benefit from AI – and why?
Will hopefully be able to say more about that after the AI+ conference – but I guess within transportation at least. And health, maybe?
7. How should the use of AI develop in the future?
Not too fast …
8. Why should participants tune in during AI+?
Being the moderator of the whole thing, I hope I can build a bridge between the speakers and the audience.