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The Role of AI in Humanistic Inquiry: An Essential Panel Discussion

On November 13, 2026, the American Council of Learned Societies (ACLS) will host a significant virtual panel titled "AI and Humanistic Inquiry: Scholarship, Ethics, and Knowledge in the Age of AI." Scheduled for 2:00 PM to 3:00 PM ET, this event will unite experts from various fields to delve into the evolving landscape of scholarship in light of artificial intelligence.

Navigating the AI Landscape in Humanities and Social Sciences

The integration of artificial intelligence into scholarly practices is no longer a distant hypothetical scenario. In fact, it raises pressing concerns about the implications for humanistic inquiry. As the world increasingly relies on technological advancements, the humanities and social sciences must address a myriad of challenges, including ethical considerations surrounding data research, representation, and the production of knowledge.

This panel aims to investigate whether these academic fields are facing potential risks or are perhaps on the brink of a transformative upswing, driven by AI innovations. Participants are encouraged to engage with profound inquiries regarding how AI reshapes societal norms, academic values, and access to knowledge.

Meet the Experts

The discussion will feature notable scholars whose expertise bridges traditional inquiry with contemporary technological landscapes. The panel will be moderated by Dr. Carlos Contreras, Professor of History at Grossmont College and Chair of the ACLS Executive Committee of Delegates. Other panelists include:

• - Dr. Sylvester A. Johnson (Northwestern University): As the Kluge Chair in Technology and Society at the Library of Congress, his research intersects race, religion, and technology, aiming for democratic and inclusive outcomes.
• - Dr. Joan McGregor (Arizona State University): Director of the Lincoln Center for Applied Ethics, Dr. McGregor integrates civic virtues into university curricula, emphasizing the moral dimensions of scholarship.
• - Dr. Kenton Rambsy (Howard University): A Data Storytelling Specialist and founder of the Black Data Lab, he employs data to highlight cultural visibility trends within African American literature.

Their diverse backgrounds and insights promise to enrich the dialogue surrounding AI's transformative potential and ethical implications in research.

A Call to Engage

The ACLS invites all interested participants to register for this free public event. As the ongoing discourse on AI continues to unfold, the perspectives gathered in this session are critical for fostering a community that values ethical scholarship, equitable access, and the innovative use of technology.

The panel represents a unique opportunity to engage with thought leaders in a field that is rapidly evolving, providing attendees with valuable knowledge and diverse viewpoints on the intersection of AI and the humanities. Don't miss the chance to be part of this important conversation on the future of academic inquiry!

Conclusion

As we approach this landmark event, the intersection of technology and humanistic research becomes increasingly relevant. Participation in this panel will not only illuminate the current challenges and opportunities presented by AI but also pave the way for future explorations in ethical scholarship and knowledge production.

Stay tuned as we continue to navigate these critical conversations that define our academic and ethical trajectory in light of emerging technological landscapes.