Seminar on AI and Cultural Future at the Beijing International Book Fair 2025
Through its virtual office in China, TRENDS Research & Advisory hosted a thought-provoking seminar titled “Artificial Intelligence and Shaping the Cultural and Cognitive Future: Challenges and Opportunities.” This engaging discussion took place at their pavilion (No. E1.A01) during the 31st edition of the Beijing International Book Fair 2025, a hallmark event celebrating literature and cultural exchange.
The Role of AI in Cultural Production
The seminar, moderated by Bing Zhu Yun (Taha), Director of TRENDS’ office in China, focused on the transformative impact of artificial intelligence (AI) on book production, cultural content, and communication. Participants explored how AI has evolved from being a mere tool to an essential partner in cultural production.
One significant point raised was AI’s role in machine translation and language instruction. The discussions underscored that while speed is a benefit of AI in translation, the true value lies in fostering cultural exchange and breaking down language barriers. This advancement allows cultural entities that might not have direct dialogue to communicate and share experiences more effectively.
Empowering Cultural Creativity
Razan Chen Jing, a prominent professor at the Middle East College of Beijing Language and Culture University, opened the seminar with insights on AI’s contribution to cultural creativity. She emphasized that AI can empower creators and facilitate communication, enhancing mutual understanding across cultures.
Chen Jing urged participants to be mindful of the ethical and technical challenges associated with utilizing AI in cultural and scientific realms. Issues such as content generation practices, intellectual property rights, and the importance of guiding future generations in understanding their cultural responsibility when employing technology were prominent themes in her address.
Addressing Data Bias in AI
Zayed Al Dhaheri, a researcher at TRENDS, shed light on the inherent biases present in AI data algorithms. He laid bare the crucial fact that AI learns from the data it receives and if that data lacks diversity, the results can be skewed.
Al Dhaheri explained how most AI platforms rely heavily on English language content, often neglecting other languages, including Arabic. This neglect leads to a diminished representation of Arab culture online, sometimes presenting it in a simplified or distorted manner. This raises pertinent questions regarding content ownership in the context of AI-generated material, pushing the discussion toward the need for inclusive approaches within AI development.
Balancing Risks and Opportunities
Al Dhaheri further elaborated that while AI offers incredible potential for enhancing cultural production, it risks diluting the human element that defines culture. He argued that genuine cultural expression encompasses feelings, experiences, and identities—dimensions that AI-generated content may lack.
Nevertheless, he acknowledged the significant opportunities AI can provide across various fields, such as book publishing, content production, and heritage preservation. Against this backdrop, he emphasized the need for a balanced approach where technological advancements coalesce with a commitment to preserving cultural authenticity.
The Future of AI in Cultural Exchange
Zhang Xiaoyan, Vice President of the Center for International Cooperation at the CCID Institute, articulated that AI technologies currently exhibit exceptional capabilities in standardized tasks like image recognition and language processing. However, she noted that challenges persist when it comes to more complex tasks such as mathematical reasoning and common-sense visual understanding.
Xiaoyan stressed the importance of differentiating between various use cases of AI, particularly in specialized fields where data accuracy is paramount. Ensuring that the content generated or translated via AI remains precise is essential to prevent the misinterpretation of information.
Promoting Knowledge and Cultural Awareness
The TRENDS pavilion attracted a varied audience of diplomats, academics, researchers, and cultural advocates who were eager to engage with the Centre’s publications and qualitative research. Among the notable attendees were H.E. Hussain Ibrahim Mohamed Al Hammadi, UAE Ambassador to China, alongside other distinguished figures from the realms of culture and academia.
Participants recognized the Centre’s commitment to fostering a culture of scientific inquiry and enhancing collaboration between civilizations. The seminar not only provided insights into technological advances but also paved the way for meaningful discourse on the cultural implications of AI.
The events at TRENDS Research & Advisory’s seminar showcased the intersection of artificial intelligence and culture, sparking discussions that resonate in our increasingly digital and interconnected world. By advocating for responsible AI use, the seminar highlighted the importance of nurturing human creativity and cultural heritage in the face of rapid technological advancement.