2025-06-19

Tropical Institute of Ecological Sciences (TIES) successfully hosted another enlightening session in its Green Talk Series, titled "AI and Social Engineering: Ethical and Regulatory Challenges", bringing together scholars and experts to reflect on the transformative—and at times troubling—implications of artificial intelligence in shaping societal norms and behaviour.

The session commenced with a Welcome Address delivered by Dr. Sebastian Joseph, Head of Environmental History and Anthropocene Studies at TIES. Dr. Joseph emphasized the critical need to engage with AI technologies through an ethical and ecological lens, especially in a rapidly digitizing world.

Dr. Punnen Kurian, Director of TIES, delivered the Presidential Address, highlighting the importance of public dialogue and interdisciplinary approaches in understanding the intersections of technology, environment, and society.

The keynote Green Talk was delivered by Dr. Sibichen K. Mathew, IRS, Chief Commissioner of Income Tax, Chennai and TEDx speaker. Dr. Mathew offered an incisive analysis of how artificial intelligence is not only reshaping administrative systems and governance, but also subtly influencing public perception and behaviour—raising urgent ethical and regulatory questions. Drawing from his vast experience in public service and academic research, he underscored the importance of data ethics, algorithmic transparency, and robust public oversight in the digital age.

An Open Forum followed, where participants actively engaged with Dr. Mathew on diverse topics ranging from AI surveillance to misinformation, and the various challenges.

Dr. Bindhu B K, Head of Environmental Engineering at TIES, delivered the Vote of Thanks, acknowledging the speaker and participants for contributing to a thought-provoking session.

The programme was coordinated by TIES Staff members and interns