Victor Hugo and AI: this will kill that
In this lecture, Victor Hugo’s ambivalent view of technological progress is explored. Hugo was both fascinated by technological advances and deeply concerned about their consequences. His famous notion “this will kill that”—suggesting that the printing press would displace architecture as the primary expression of human development.
Through examples from his writings, Arie van der Lugt reflects on Hugo’s ideas, including his experience of early train travel, where wonder is mixed with discomfort and fear. These moments reveal Hugo’s broader concerns about speed, change, and the human experience.
By revisiting Hugo’s ideas, we are invited to reflect on our own relationship with technology today, and to consider what may be gained—and what may be lost—in times of rapid technological transformation.
Audience & takeaways
For a broad, curious audience (students, academics, professionals). Gain fresh insight into how Victor Hugo’s ideas illuminate today’s AI debates, what we gain, and what we risk losing.
Availability
Available spaces: 12/ 12
Location
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