Princeton University’s Pre-Read Program for the incoming Class of 2028 has chosen “The Worlds I See” by Fei-Fei Li as this year’s text. The book selection comes at a time when artificial intelligence (ai) is receiving significant attention both within the university and globally. Fei-Fei Li, a prominent figure in ai and computer science, was selected due to her notable contributions to research in this field.
The Extraordinary Career of Fei-Fei Li
Fei-Fei Li, the first Sequoia Capital Professor in Computer Science at Stanford University, has made significant strides in ai research. She co-directs Stanford’s Human-Centered artificial intelligence Institute and was listed in the 2023 TIME100 for her influence in the ai domain. Born as an immigrant and a student at Princeton, Li’s memoir, “The Worlds I See,” provides readers with a unique perspective on her experiences in the ai landscape.
Initially intending to write solely about ai, Li’s philosopher friend encouraged her to infuse her narrative into the book, making it relatable to a broader audience beyond technologists. In her memoir, Li shares stories about her journey as a Chinese immigrant and student at Princeton, highlighting the challenges she faced and the opportunities she embraced.
Princeton’s ai Initiatives
The choice of Li’s book aligns with Princeton University’s recent research and development initiatives in the field of ai. The institution’s commitment to advancing ai technologies while considering ethical implications is evident through the establishment of the Princeton Language and Intelligence Initiative (PLI) and plans for an ai hub in New Jersey.
Beyond academia, Li advocates for the responsible development and governance of ai technologies. She emphasizes the importance of adequately resourcing universities to address the societal impacts of these advancements. Li’s involvement extends beyond academia, as she supports national policymaking initiatives like the CREATE ai Act to establish a National artificial intelligence Research Resource.
The Human Side of ai
Li stresses the human aspect of ai, reminding us that it is created, deployed, and governed by humans. She advocates for ethical considerations and public accountability in the development and deployment of ai technologies. Li’s work is guided by Princeton’s motto, “In the nation’s service and the service of humanity,” emphasizing the importance of addressing societal issues through the lens of ai.
Fei-Fei Li’s selection for Princeton University’s Pre-Read program underscores the institution’s commitment to fostering intellectual exploration and engaging with pressing societal issues, such as ai. Through her memoir, Li offers readers insights into the future of ai while sharing a deeply personal narrative that resonates with individuals from diverse backgrounds.
As Princeton continues to navigate the evolving landscape of ai, Li’s perspectives catalyze meaningful dialogue and action in the pursuit of ethical ai development and governance.
