New College Festival – Eleanor Drage

Eleanor Drage – 'What If We Got AI Right? How to Stop Catastrophising and Build an Ethical Future' In a world obsessed with whether AI will destroy humanity, Eleanor Drage, one of the world’s leading AI ethicists, is asking a far more urgent – and actionable – question: ‘What if We Got AI Right?’ (Profile, 2026). This book unpicks the dominant narratives around AI and the culture and ideas that drive its arms race, offering a radically more hopeful, human-centred vision. Drawing on cutting-edge research, real-world case studies and cultural analysis, Drage argues that the biggest risks of AI are not futuristic doomsday scenarios, but the systems, incentives and power structures shaping it today. From Big Tech monopolies to hidden bias in algorithms, from ‘AI hype’ to the lack of public involvement in its design, this is a timely, provocative intervention that reframes AI as a social, political and ethical issue – not just a technical one. Only by bringing feminism, reparative justice and climate politics into the debate can we create a better future with machines. This event is supported by Kenneth and Isabel Morrison. Accessibility We are committed to providing an accessible and inclusive attendee experience. In line with fire safety regulations attendees using a wheelchair must be able to self-transfer to an evac chair in order to safely evacuate the building. If you have specific accessibility needs or accommodation requests please let us know during registration or contact us in advance by emailing [email protected]. Additional information can be found at Accessibility Information: New College Venue & Travel The event will take place at New College on the Mound. Please access via the glass door through main gated entrance. New College is very accessible on foot, bike and bus. We would encourage all attendees to consider sustainable travel options to the event. Car parking is not available and limited only to nearby street parking: Find parking bays – The City of Edinburgh Council Further information on the venue and travel options can be found at Travel Options