Series 1 - Artificial Intelligence and The Modern World
Placing Panmure House at the Heart of Debate in Scotland
A bold new series of public discussions that brings the spirit of the Scottish Enlightenment into the 21st century. Hosted in the historic home of Adam Smith, these events explore the most pressing issues of our time through the lenses of Policy and Government, Economics, History, and Philosophy.
Each ticket includes a complimentary drink on arrival and the chance to tour Adam Smith’s final residence — a historic institution not normally open to the general public. An event itinerary is listed below.
In partnership with Baillie Gifford, this programme reawakens the tradition of rigorous, respectful discourse that once filled these very rooms — where Smith and his contemporaries debated the great questions of their day, from American independence to taxation and the future of science.
Today, Panmure House Debates continue that legacy, convening leading thinkers, policymakers, academics, and the public to engage in meaningful dialogue on the challenges and opportunities shaping our modern world.
Hosted by the Adam Smith Chair in Sustainable Capitalism, Professor Adam Dixon, join us as we revive the Enlightenment tradition of critical inquiry and civic dialogue — right where it began.
About AI & The Workplace
As AI reshapes the global economy, how will it redefine the nature of work?
We explore the profound implications of AI on employment, productivity, and the human experience of labour. From automation and job displacement to the emergence of new industries and ethical dilemmas, this debate will examine how societies can adapt to — and shape — the future of work in an age of intelligent machines.
We bring together leading voices from technology, academia, economics, policy, and philosophy to ask:
- What does meaningful work look like in the age of AI?
- Who benefits — and who might be left behind?
- How can we ensure that innovation serves the common good?
Panel:
Luke McKinney - Director of Consulting at Nile HQ, award-winning innovation designer and lecturer at The Glasgow School of Art
Dr Cailean Gallagher - Associate Lecturer at University of St Andrews Business School
Moderated by:
Dr Lucia Blaha - Assistant Professor in Business Management and Intelligent Automation at Heriot-Watt University School of Social Sciences
Audience participation via polls and live Q&A encouraged.
