Innovations in AI: Insights from Shahbazian and Glorikian at Tekeyan Boston Event

September 24, 2024
WATERTOWN – In a world increasingly defined by technology, artificial intelligence (AI) continues to make headlines, evolving at an unprecedented pace reminiscent of a new industrial revolution. On September 12, at the Baikar Building in Watertown, the Tekeyan Cultural Association Boston Chapter hosted a pivotal discussion featuring Professor Joseph Shahbazian and healthcare entrepreneur Harry Glorikian. Their presentations illuminated the transformative effects of AI across various sectors and examined its implications, especially in relation to Armenia.

Dr. Joseph Shahbazian discussing AI developments.

The Multifaceted Career of Dr. Joseph Shahbazian

Dr. Shahbazian, a physicist and medical engineer with a rich background in academia, provided a comprehensive overview of AI’s historical context. He traced the term back to its 1956 inception at Dartmouth College and highlighted the spectrum of both challenges and opportunities it presents. As industries grapple with the effects of AI, particularly job displacement—evident in the recent layoffs within the gaming sector—his insights are more relevant than ever.

Shahbazian remarked on the unyielding nature of AI compared to human decision-making capabilities, saying:

“AI imposes rigid rules, often overshadowing the nuanced judgment humans bring.”
Despite such challenges, he emphasized AI’s functionality in performing repetitive tasks with minimal error, showcasing how tools like gamma.com can assist users in creating professional presentations rapidly.

Harnessing AI in Armenia

The presentation showcased Armenian innovations in AI, particularly Picsart and Krisp AI, which have made significant strides in improving online experiences through image creation and noise cancellation, respectively. These examples illustrate the potential of AI to enhance everyday life while marking Armenia’s growing presence in the tech landscape.

Harry Glorikian addressing the audience.

Health Innovations: Glorikian’s Perspective

Glorikian, whose book The Future You has garnered acclaim, discussed the silence-breaking role of AI in the healthcare sector. He illustrated how ubiquitous AI tools have integrated into our daily lives, often without our conscious awareness, from recommendation algorithms on streaming services like Netflix to search engines. The advent of conversational AI models like ChatGPT has dramatically changed the accessibility and interactivity of AI, bringing it closer to users than ever before.

In healthcare, Glorikian emphasized the revolutionary applications AI is currently driving—from assisting in surgeries to virtual nursing. The capabilities of AI to analyze vast datasets for predictive analytics are proving invaluable, leading to higher diagnostic accuracy and operational efficiency. He noted, “AI can point out new molecules and pathways for therapeutics much faster than ever before.” However, he cautioned that these significant advancements still require real-world testing to ensure efficacy before widespread application.

Audience members engaging with the speakers during the event.

Audience Engagement and Concerns

As the evening progressed, moderator Aram Arkun opened the floor to an engaging Q&A session where the audience raised vital concerns about the ethical implications of AI in various domains. Queries ranged from the use of AI in war to the competitive race between the U.S. and China in AI innovation, reflecting the public’s apprehensions about the pace of these developments.

The discussions brought to light Armenia’s commitment to adopting AI technologies across various sectors. Notably, the establishment of the Armenian National Supercomputing Center marks a significant milestone in this ambition. This center aims to enhance Armenia’s capabilities in big data, computational science, and AI, vital for innovation and regional leadership in technology. Supported by a consortium including the Armenian government and the World Bank, this initiative illustrates a collaborative approach to elevating Armenia’s high-tech sector.

The Future of AI: Learning to Adapt

Both speakers left the audience with a call to action—not just to observe AI’s evolution but to engage with it actively. Glorikian shared a piece of advice for his children:

“Learn how to learn,”
underscoring the necessity of adaptability in this fast-paced technological environment. As society stands on the brink of what could be the most significant leap in various sectors due to AI, it is imperative for individuals to not just keep pace but to play an active role in understanding and shaping this future.

As the evening concluded, attendees were left with a deeper insight into the transformative potential of artificial intelligence and the responsibility that comes with it, particularly as it intersects with culture, ethics, and the future of work in a technologically driven society.