AI and the Seduction of Convenience: Who Is Really Doing the Thinking?

AI makes work faster and easier. But when a tool drafts, summarises and decides for us, who is still doing the thinking?

We will look at the human, ethical and societal side of everyday AI use: the concrete risks, from losing judgment and confidence to handing over decisions without noticing, and practical ways to keep critical thinking in your own hands. Bring your questions, your doubts and your own experience. You will leave with clearer answers and a few habits you can use the next day.

The WDS Zug Chapter and The Human Factor Association invite you to an open-floor discussion on 10 November. Michael Gerlich and Barry Dequanne, founders of The Human Factor Association, will open the evening and then hand it over to you. This is not a lecture or a panel, just a conversation built around your questions.

Agenda:

18:00 - 18:30 Welcome and Registration

18:30 - 19:00 Introduction – Women in Digital Switzerland & The Human Factor Association

19:00 - 20:00 Open conversation

20:0 - 20:15 Closure

20:15 - 21:00 Networking

Speakers:

Dr Michael Gerlich

Dr Michael Gerlich is a researcher, author and advisor on the human and societal implications of artificial intelligence. Named by MSN among the TOP 10 Leading Speakers to Follow in 2025 and 2026 and one of the world’s foremost keynote speakers on artificial intelligence and the human factor shaping its future impact on society, business, and education. His work explores how AI shapes human judgement, independence and everyday life and has been mentioned in the global media, including TIME, BBC, The Economist and WSJ. He is the author of The Convenience Trap and What Happens If All Goes Wrong? What Happens If All Goes Right?, which examine the choices that determine whether AI strengthens human capability or gradually erodes it.

Barry Dequanne - Vice Chair of the Human Factor Association

Barry Dequanne is the Deputy Chairman of the Executive Board of The Human Factor Association and Director of the International School of Zug and Luzern (ISZL). With more than thirty years of international experience in education across Africa, South America and Europe, he brings a global perspective on how technological change affects education, leadership and future generations. His work centres on school improvement, responsible governance and leadership development.

Partner:

The Human Factor Association is a Swiss non-profit organisation that places people at the centre of technological change. It brings together individuals from education, business, research and wider society to explore how AI affects our lives, choices and relationships. Through public dialogue, events and collaboration, it promotes independent thought, human judgement and responsible approaches to technology.

Sponsor:

Women in Digital Switzerland (WDS) is a community of modern leaders who leverage collaboration and elevate diversity to advance careers and create business opportunities in the Swiss digital economy. By leveraging the power of our community, WDS advances careers, supports organisational transformation leaps, and creates business opportunities in the Swiss digital economy and beyond. Be part of the change. Become a supporter.

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