Lawyers and computer scientists have much in common

A conference titled Law and Technology – Bridging the Gap: Deepfakes, Bias, and Discrimination, was held this week by the Department of Law and the Department of Computer Science. Ragnhildur Helgadóttir, President of RU, opened the event, followed by talks by five specialists in their fields.

• Keynote: Viðar Pétur Styrkársson Lessons from the World of Artificial Intelligence
• Bridging the Gap: Deepfakes: María Rún Bjarnadóttir (Law), Don’t Worry, It’s Just Deepfaked Elín Carsteinsdóttir (Artificial Intelligence)
• Bridging the Gap: Bias and Discrimination: Hafsteinn Dan Kristjánsson (Law) Artificial Intelligence and Equality and Stefán Ólafsson (Artificial Intelligence) Models Learn What They Are Fed: The Consequences of Bias and Possible Solutions

Important that the two fields are aligned and work hand in hand

At Reykjavik University, numerous experts work in computer science and law, underscoring the importance of bringing the two disciplines together, particularly as both departments aim to be leaders in their respective fields. Outstanding research on artificial intelligence is conducted within the departments, and developments in the field are closely monitored worldwide.

It is important to involve legal experts earlier in the software development process and to ensure alignment between the two fields on legal framework, human rights, and ethical issues. The conference marked an important step in raising awareness of the need for greater interdisciplinary collaboration in artificial intelligence research. In the development of AI, for example, it is essential that computer scientists understand legal frameworks, such as data protection laws, to facilitate their implementation.

Says Henning Arnór Úlfarsson, department chair of the Department of Computer Science.

The event was very well attended, and it was truly encouraging to see such a diverse group from both industry and academia. Lawyers and computer scientists have much in common, and it is clear that there is a strong interest in more active dialogue and collaboration. There is, therefore, great potential still to be explored.

Says Gunnar Þór Pétursson, department chair of the Department of Law.