Our weekly Seminar Series welcomes SRI Faculty Affiliate Boris Babic, an assistant professor at the University of Toronto with joint appointments in the Department of Philosophy and the Department of Statistical Sciences. Before joining U of T in July of 2021, Babic was an assistant professor of decision sciences at INSEAD.
In this seminar, Babic will discuss explainable artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning (ML), challenging prevailing notions around explainable AI by proposing that ML predictions are at best unnecessary or misleading and at worst socially harmful.
Talk title:
“The case against explainable artificial intelligence and machine learning”
Abstract:
Explainability in machine learning (ML) is emerging as a leading area of academic research and a topic of significant regulatory concern. Indeed, a near-consensus is emerging in favour of explainable ML among academics, governments, and civil society groups. In this project, we challenge this prevailing trend. We argue that explaining ML predictions is at best unnecessary or misleading and at worst socially harmful. Unlike interpretable ML, which we endorse where it is feasible, explainable ML can deliver on none of the benefits it is touted for—e.g., engendering trust, increasing understanding, and promoting algorithmic safety and reliability.
Suggested readings:
B. Babic, S. Gerke, T. Evgeniou, and I. G. Cohen. “Beware explanations from AI in health care,” Science 373 (6552), pp. 284-286. July 16, 2021.
B. Babic and S. Gerke. “Explaining medical AI is easier said than done,” Stat, July 21, 2021.
About Boris Babic
Boris Babic is an assistant professor at the University of Toronto with joint appointments in the Department of Philosophy and the Department of Statistical Sciences. Before joining U of T in July of 2021, he was an assistant professor of decision sciences at INSEAD.
About the SRI Seminar Series
The SRI Seminar Series brings together the Schwartz Reisman community and beyond for a robust exchange of ideas that advance scholarship at the intersection of technology and society. Seminars are led by a leading or emerging scholar and feature extensive discussion.
Each week, a featured speaker will present for 45 minutes, followed by 45 minutes of discussion. Registered attendees will be emailed a Zoom link approximately one hour before the event begins. The event will be recorded and posted online.
Boris Babic