How AI shapes humans | Dr. Vania Dimitrova | TEDxUniversity of Leeds

Using food as an extended metaphor, this talk compares our relationship with AI to our relationship with food: both are fast, convenient, and satisfying, but come with hidden costs. Structured around a "What? So What? Now What?" framework, Dimitrova explores how easy AI consumption can lead to dependency, cognitive atrophy, and loss of identity, much like a diet of processed, fast food. She then turns to solutions: better research into AI systems, their impact, and risks; stronger regulation through principles, guidance, and toolkits; and more mindful everyday habits: staying aware, staying in control, and helping one another navigate AI use. The talk closes with its central message: just as we should be mindful of what we eat, we should be equally mindful of our "AI diet." Professor of Human-Centred Artificial Intelligence, Deputy Head of School for the School of Computer Science at the University of Leeds, and Co-director of the UKRI Centre for Doctoral Training in Artificial Intelligence for Medical Diagnosis and Care. In the past, I was President of the International Artificial Intelligence in Education Society and continue to be engaged as a Society's secretary. This talk was given at a TEDx event using the TED conference format but independently organized by a local community. Learn more at https://www.ted.com/tedx