International Association for Computing and Philosophy - Annual Conference 2026

Workshop: Artificial Wisdom – Making AI More Human and Humans Less Mechanical
2026-07-17 , Executive Conference Room

The recent history of LLMs has shown that these systems can produce output that their users find intelligent and useful but wisdom in their outputs is encountered less often. Philosophers tend to define wisdom as a product of experience, well founded knowledge to which proper judgement is applied to produce beneficial outcomes. It can be argued to be an essential component of thoughtful ethical actions as well as a key component in working through complex situations that require discernment and a balanced approach. It is concerned with long term outcomes and is not focused entirely on short-term gain. It is the virtue we employ to foster a good and just life or philosophical eudaemonia. Cultivating this skill was a concern of ancient philosophers and has become of renewed interest to some modern philosophers. There is a profound difference though, unlike our ancient collogues, we routinely think with and through machines. These days that includes LLMs which even act as conversational partners though which we can engage in something like a Socratic dialogue. In this workshop our presenters will make a position statement that addresses some of the deep philosophical questions in this topic. Are machines capable of helping us grow through wise counsel, or do they only produce simulacral glossolalia that is attractive and convenient but which we mistakenly accept as advice that is just and good? Our panelists will explore methods such as artificial wisdom, artificial phronesis, and other methods that help ensure that the AI systems that are being designed now will fare better in their interactions with human users.