Singapore Management University president highlights growing role of social sciences in AI era

In an era where artificial intelligence (AI) is revolutionizing business operations, government policies, and personal work, the skills required to navigate its impact are expanding beyond the realm of technology. This shift, according to Singapore Management University (SMU) President Lily Kong, places greater emphasis on human judgment, critical thinking, and understanding of society.

SMU's president believes that this change will make the social sciences and management increasingly crucial in the AI age, as universities are not only responsible for teaching students how to utilize the technology but also for enabling them to scrutinize its output, comprehend its consequences, and employ it responsibly.

Kong asserts in a recent interview with The Korea Times that as AI becomes more capable, the value of human judgment will correspondingly increase. She emphasizes that AI is not merely a technological transformation; rather, its integration into workplaces, business decisions, and public policy necessitates that universities equip students with the knowledge and abilities to understand and manage its wider societal impact.

Kong highlights that SMU's specialization in management, social sciences, and technology positions it well to prepare students to tackle the multifaceted challenges arising from the AI era.