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Global partnership creates toolkit for tough conversations about AI

Glossary derived from key insights gained at Action AI Summit fulfils need for a resource that goes beyond conventional definitions of Artificial Intelligence.

6 March 2025
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New toolkit aims to ease tough conversations about AI

Recognising the urgent need for deeper discussions about Artificial Intelligence’s societal impact, a global team of experts has developed a glossary that goes beyond standard definitions to spark critical conversations.

"Critical Conversations about AI: A Glossary for Big Questions and Bold Ideas" is derived from key insights gained at last month’s Action AI Summit, in Paris, where participants identified the need for a resource that goes beyond conventional definitions.

The AI landscape is evolving rapidly - raising profound questions about societal, ethical, and philosophical implications. By exploring rarely discussed terms within the AI ecosystem, the glossary serves as an engaging and thought-provoking tool designed for professionals, educators, policymakers, and curious minds.

AI is not just a technological evolution; it’s a societal transformation. Critical thinking about its impact is more essential than ever. This glossary serves as a key resource for fostering informed discussions—both in classrooms and high-level policy debates—helping to navigate the complexities of emerging AI-related challenges with responsibility and foresight.

Dr Martin Wählisch - University of Birmingham

The glossary was created by AI and digital technology experts from the Centre for AI in Government at the University of Birmingham, the International Observatory on the Societal Impacts of AI and Digital Technology (Obvia), in Canada, and Tech Hub at the Geneva Graduate Institute.

And the glossary authors are calling upon people who identify a missing term or a concept to explore in more detail to share their suggestion at connaissances@obvia.ca

Dr. Lyse Langlois, Executive Director, Obvia, commented: “The glossary is an essential tool in fostering critical reflection on AI’s societal implications. By providing nuanced definitions and stimulating discussions, we aim to empower individuals and organizations to engage meaningfully with the future of AI.”

Each term in the glossary is presented with a clear definition, concrete examples, and open-ended questions that invite deeper reflection and dialogue. The goal is to encourage ongoing conversations about the intersection of technology and society within an educational framework.

Dr. Jérôme Duberry, Managing Director of the Tech Hub, Geneva Graduate Institute commented: “This glossary helps translate complex AI concepts into meaningful conversations that bridge theory and practice. AI literacy is crucial—not only for students but also for senior decision-makers who shape policies and strategies. By fostering open dialogue, we can collectively work toward a future where AI is developed and used in an ethical, sustainable, and inclusive manner."

The Critical Glossary is a living document, continuously evolving and updated annually to integrate fresh insights and new perspectives on the social and philosophical dimensions of technological advancements.

Dr. Martin Wählisch, Associate Professor, Center for AI in Government, University of Birmingham commented: "AI is not just a technological evolution; it’s a societal transformation. Critical thinking about its impact is more essential than ever. This glossary serves as a key resource for fostering informed discussions—both in classrooms and high-level policy debates—helping to navigate the complexities of emerging AI-related challenges with responsibility and foresight."

Discover the glossary.

Notes for editors

For more information, please contact Tony Moran, International Communications Manager, University of Birmingham on +44 (0)782 783 2312. For out-of-hours enquiries, please call +44 (0) 121 414 2772.

The University of Birmingham is ranked amongst the world’s top 100 universities institutions. Its work brings people from across the world to Birmingham, including researchers, teachers and more than 8,000 international students from over 150 countries.

Partners of the Critical Glossary

The International Observatory on the Societal Impacts of AI and Digital Technologies (Obvia) is an inter-university network of over 240 researchers and numerous partners in Quebec and internationally. Its mission is to identify the societal issues related to artificial intelligence and digital technologies, and to contribute to solutions that place living beings and the biosphere at the center of their development and usage cycles. Obvia’s research community produces open knowledge that strengthens individual and collective capacities, in collaboration with civil society, public actors, industry, and developers. 

The Tech Hub at the Geneva Graduate Institute is a dynamic interdisciplinary center fostering innovation and research at the intersection of technology, society, and policy. Based at the Geneva Graduate Institute, the Tech Hub brings together scholars, policymakers, industry leaders, and civil society to explore the transformative impact of digital technologies, artificial intelligence, and emerging innovations on global governance and human development. Through research, collaboration, and public engagement, the Tech Hub generates open knowledge and practical solutions that promote ethical, inclusive, and sustainable technological advancements. 

The Center for AI in Government (CAIG), University of Birmingham. CAIG connects social sciences with AI and data science to explore their impact on democracy, global affairs, and sustainable development. By bringing together researchers, policymakers, and industry experts, CAIG investigates how AI can enhance governance while addressing ethical, legal, and societal challenges. Through interdisciplinary collaboration and evidence-based research, the center contributes to responsible and effective AI adoption in public institutions, ensuring technology serves the public good. 

Featured staff

  • Dr Martin Wählisch

    Associate Professor of Transformative Technologies, Innovation and Global Affairs

    School of Government

    Dr. Martin Wählisch's work explores how emerging technologies and futures thinking can advance international relations, enhance peace processes, and drive sustainable development.

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