Artificial Intelligence, Big Data, and the Role of Universities

Authors

  • Rajani Naidoo University of Exeter

Keywords:

AI and Digital Transformation

Abstract

Artificial intelligence (AI) and big data are transforming economies, societies, and institutions, raising critical concerns for democracy, intellectual autonomy, and global citizenship. While AI offers immense benefits, it is also leveraged by tech elites to consolidate power, erode regulation, and act against the global good. This article discusses some of these key dimensions and outlines some important research directions, including prioritizing interdisciplinary research on how political and economic power can leverage technology to harness or prevent AI from being deployed for the benefit of people and our planet.

Author Biography

Rajani Naidoo, University of Exeter

Rajani Naidoo is professor of higher education and social change and vice-president and deputy vice-chancellor for people and culture at the University of Exeter, United Kingdom. She holds a UNESCO Chair and is visiting professor at the University of Bath, United Kingdom, and Nelson Mandela University, Port Elizabeth, South Africa. E-mail: R.Naidoo@exeter.ac.uk.

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Published

2025-08-05

How to Cite

Naidoo, R. (2025). Artificial Intelligence, Big Data, and the Role of Universities. International Higher Education, (123), 13–14. Retrieved from https://ejournals.bc.edu/index.php/ihe/article/view/20225

Issue

No. 123 (2025): Summer Issue

Section

Articles

License

Copyright (c) 2025 International Higher Education

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