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The Arms Control Poseur

Artificial intelligence controls with Simona Soare

Season 2, Ep. 5

William Alberque is joined by Dr Simona Soare to explore the nuances of AI as a dual-use technology, its integration into military and civilian sectors, and the ethical, legal, and strategic challenges it represents.  This episode delves into specific concerns such as AI in autonomous weapons, facial recognition and societal monitoring, discussing the potential for both innovation and oversight. They discuss the global efforts to govern AI’s military applications, including international treaties and national policies, and the varying approaches by different global powers. Dr Soare sheds light on how AI could reshape future warfare and the balance of power, emphasizing the critical need for a responsible governance framework. 


Dr Simona R. Soare is a Professor of Strategy and Technology at Lancaster University. She specialises in defence innovation and emerging technologies, software-defined defence, digital transformation of defence, and future of war. 


‘The Arms Control Poseur’ is a podcast series produced by the IISS Strategy, Technology and Arms Control Programme on behalf of the EU Non-Proliferation and Disarmament Consortium.    

  

We hope you enjoy the episode and please follow, rate, and subscribe to The Arms Control Poseur on the podcast platform of your choice.    

Date of Recording: 14 November 2023    

The Arms Control Poseur is recorded and produced at the IISS in Berlin. 


The Arms Control Primer’ is a podcast series produced by the IISS Strategy, Technology and Arms Control Programme on behalf of the EU Non-Proliferation and Disarmament Consortium

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