Heidegger, Technology, and AI (Harvard University)

Shih-Diing Liu (Fairbank Center for Chinese Studies, Harvard University)

In this presentation, I will explore the relevance of Martin Heidegger’s thought in understanding the sociopolitical significance of technology in general, and AI in particular. My engagement with Heidegger has been somewhat ‘accidental’—I initially aimed to study AI companionship through the work of Hubert Dreyfus, who examines the nature and evolution of AI technologies from a Heideggerian perspective. This presentation will specifically focus on Heidegger’s theorization of technology and how it enhances our critical understanding of AI and its political implications.

(The event is hosted by the Institute for Rebooting Social Media, Berkman Klein Center for Internet & Society, Harvard University, on April 1, 2025.)

Photo source: https://digitalmag.theceomagazine.com/when-ai-gets-emotional/?r=global