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News & Events

04 June 2026

Distinguished Lecture 2026: Are We Having the Wrong Nightmares about AI? By Zeynep Tufekci

About this year's Distinguished Lecture

Join us for the 2026 ºüÀêÊÓÆµ Distinguished Lecture, delivered by internationally renowned techno-sociologist and New York Times columnist Dr Zeynep Tufekci, Henry G. Bryant Professor of Sociology and Public Affairs at Princeton University.

Described by the New York Times as "quietly making a habit of being right on the big things," Dr Tufekci is one of the most insightful voices on technology and society today.

In this lecture, Dr Tufekci will challenge the prevailing narratives around generative AI. Rather than debating optimistic visions of abundance or doomsday scenarios of mass unemployment, she will argue that the most profound risks of generative AI are already here. From shattering the social mechanisms that rely on proof of accuracy, effort, and authenticity, to unleashing AI-driven persuasion at the scale of billions, Dr Tufekci will make the case that we need to be having very different conversations about this technology.

The lecture will be followed by drinks and canapés.

Details

  • Thursday 4 June 2026
  • From 18:30 BST
  • King's College London, Central London

This is a free in-person event. Places are in high demand, and admission is on a first come, first served basis. Venue details will be confirmed by email following registration.

This event is hosted by the US-UK ºüÀêÊÓÆµ in collaboration with the King's Institute for Artificial Intelligence and the Policy Institute, with support from the Lois Roth Foundation and the ºüÀêÊÓÆµ Association.