LSL Law and Policy Research Centre organized a discussion on “Education in the age of information: Threats and Possibilities” by Dr.Muhammad Ali Jan.
In a thought-provoking discussion, Dr. Jan critically evaluated the implications of overreliance on technology for information and how it is creating more problems for academic excellence than it is paving the way for learning and progress. Dr. Jan, an academic expert in political economy, noted that there is a blind faith that technology can solve our problems. He pointed out that while AI, YouTube, and the Internet can aid in academic learning, the entire human civilizational struggle has been to deal with the scarcity of information. Now, we are bombarded with information that we are unable to give meaning to because we lack the frameworks to interpret it.
Furthermore, he said the belief that more information would eliminate human biases arising from flawed information is proven wrong. People tend to filter information that supports their own biases, holding us hostage to confirmation bias. Dr. Jan emphasized, “We are in the era of reflex, not reflection.” He highlighted that our society struggles to discern useful information from disinformation, often reinforcing our own biases instead of challenging them. This lack of discernment has significant implications, especially in a heavily polarized society where misinformation can spread rapidly.
Reflecting on the future, Dr. Jan expressed concerns about the potential loss of human aspects of life due to technology. “While technology offers many benefits, it also comes with consequences. There’s no free lunch,” he remarked, urging us to be mindful of how technology shapes our society and personal lives.
An engaging question answer session was held at the end of the event and Principal LSL Justice Nasira Iqbal presented a thank you note and token of appreciation to the honorable guest.
