2014 Schedule
Interactive: March 7–11  •  Film: March 7–15  •  Music: March 11–16

The Machines Will Free Us All

#sxsw #FutureAI

Artificial intelligence has advanced to the point where it’s no longer just science fiction. Computers now perform intelligent tasks such as collect bridge tolls, drive cars, deliver newspapers, make and serve food, and will soon take over human-centered tasks in every industry. Instead of fearing the “rise of the machines”, we should learn to embrace their power to free ourselves from mundane tasks. In a world run by machines – which is closer than you think – humans could devote more time to building a more equitable society, instead of spending most of their waking hours at work. The relationship between man and machine is becoming more of a partnership, rather than the ominous depiction seen in movies. Will computer-human interaction and the rise of AI create a more just society? And, just as importantly, will computers free us to spend more time at the beach and less time in the office? In this session, hear a not-so-farfetched vision from a noted AI computer scientist.

Presenters

George John

CEO & Co-Founder

Rocket Fuel

George John is CEO and co-founder of Rocket Fuel, the leading artificial intelligence advertising technology company. Previously, George led teams building high-tech systems to optimize marketing at Yahoo!, salesforce.com, Epiphany, and IBM, in roles spanning engineering, marketing, sales, and executive management. George has served on the advisory boards of CafePress, Enviz, Quindi, and Intelligent Results; advised the National Science Foundation; and volunteered with the American Institute for Health Education. He earned his bachelor’s, master’s, and doctorate degrees in the department of computer science at Stanford University. During his graduate studies, George co-authored a seminal paper on relevance that became one of the top-ten most-cited papers in AI. He also won a National Science Foundation fellowship and worked for NASA during the summers, where he earned his “rocket scientist” credentials.

Thanks to our sponsors

Miller Lite Monster Energy Esurance Chevrolet AT&T IFC Subway Austin Chronicle

Music sponsor

Sonic Bids

Interactive sponsors

Deloitte American Express Pennzoil