Dr Ruth Stalker-Firth
AI demystification, real-world AI understanding & critical thinking
After hearing a speaker confidently explain that ChatGPT would soon start breeding robots, I launched Demystifying AI in response to growing hype and nonsense around AI.
I fell into AI in 1993, initially as an excuse to spend a summer in Paris. What started as a glamorous destination became a decades-long journey with some pretty extraordinary highlights along the way – a conference at Stanford University with Lotfi Zadeh, representing Switzerland for technical innovation and a PhD in l’intelligence artificielle at EPFL.
These days, I explain how AI actually works, what it can and can’t do, and why the reality is less dramatic than the stories would have us believe.
Many thanks to Ruth for an insightful entertaining talk on AI which really pulled back the curtain on the tech of the tech-bro hyperbole.
PubSci, August 2025
Future events
Demystifying AI : AI made easy – Monday 2nd November 2026 at 6:00pm, on VIA.
Demystifying AI: A 4-part course for everyday life – Mondays 4th, 11th, 18th, 25th January 2027, at 6:00pm, on VIA.
Explore the archive.
Demystifying AI
Public talk: the history, cultural stories and realities of AI.
Interactive Session | 2.5 hours: a deep dive for groups with real-world application.
4 * 1 hour sessions | Understand, Use, and Explain AI
Shaped by a group of learners and feedback from 300 people, this course gives people the confidence to navigate tools practically and hold informed, critical conversations about technology.
Other talks
- Historical & cultural: When Computers were Women · Bacon on Ice-cream
- Society & systems: AI at the Movies · Human Computer-Interaction · Digital Anthropology · Digital Journalism
What People Say
“I really enjoyed my evening – down to earth view of AI with a lot of humour. It was great!” Louise, PubSci Attendee.
“So much more interesting than my AI lecturers.” MSc student, Pints of Knowledge Attendee.
“You have filled in so much that I couldn’t understand.” Mary, VIA Online Attendee.
“Such an interesting and engaging talk on AI. So knowledgeable, I could have listened for hours.” Cass, PubSci Attendee.
“My mind is spinning with so much incredible information.” Helen, WI Learning Hub Online Attendee.
“I think Ruth is amazing. Love her thoughts, talks, explanations – everything.” Sandra, WI Learning Hub Online Attendee.
Booking & Inquiries
Interested in hosting a talk or course? Get in touch to discuss your event.
Last updated: October 2026