Chief Scientist Highlights the Enduring Value of Books in the Age of Artificial Intelligence
Chief Scientist Highlights the Enduring Value of Books in the Age of Artificial Intelligence
The Chief Scientist of the Republic of Cyprus, Demetris Skourides, delivered a keynote address titled “Books in the Age of AI: Rethinking Knowledge, Imagination and Creativity” at the Limassol International Book Fair, an important cultural initiative once again supported by the Office of the Chief Scientist.
In his keynote, Mr Skourides addressed the growing impact of artificial intelligence on content creation and the fundamental question it raises for society: what gives a book meaning in an era where algorithms can generate vast amounts of text in seconds. He emphasised that while AI can produce text, it cannot replace the intention of an author, human imagination, or the emotional and cultural depth that books have carried for centuries.
Speaking on the role of education and culture, Mr Skourides underlined the importance of physical books for the next generation. He noted that books play a critical role in strengthening imagination, deepening attention, nurturing empathy and developing critical thinking skills, particularly at a time when information is abundant but depth is increasingly rare.
The Chief Scientist also highlighted the opportunities that AI presents for the world of books, including adaptive reading experiences, multilingual access, immersive formats and new forms of storytelling. However, he stressed that the responsible use of these technologies must aim to enrich the literary ecosystem rather than replace the human creativity at its core.
Concluding his address, Mr Skourides reaffirmed that the future of books is inseparable from the future of human imagination. As Cyprus continues to shape its national AI strategy, the Office of the Chief Scientist remains committed to supporting creativity, protecting cultural expression and ensuring that every child grows up with stories that inspire curiosity, imagination and creation.
