Dr. Kate Darling: Robotics Expert
Robot ethics expert who helps audiences understand social robotics, trust, and the ethical impact of AI on work and society.
Quick Facts:
- Highlights:
- Research scientist at MIT Media Lab
- Affiliate of the institue for Ethics & emerging Technologies
- Shares incredible insights on human-robot interaction, robot ethics, and the ways robots will impact society in the near-term future.
- Formats: Keynote (30–50m), Panel, University Lecture, Virtual Q&A.
- Audiences: Academic/industry groups (30–300); Conferences (100–1,200).
- Outcomes:
- Clarify ethical implications of human-robot systems.
- Provide frameworks to design humane interactions.
- Improve stakeholder trust through responsible deployment steps.
- Travels from: Boston, MA
- **Fee range: On Request
Talent Services
Keynote Topics:
The Future of Human-Robot Interaction
The robots are coming and they’re getting smarter, evolving from singletask devices (think Roomba) into machines that can make their own decisions and autonomously navigate public spaces. From transportation systems, hospitals, and the military, to the robotization of our workplaces and households, robots will be everywhere and will increasingly interact with people.
Whether you find it exhilarating or terrifying (or both), progress in robotics and related fields like AI raises new ethical quandaries and challenges legal codes created for a world in which a sharp line separates man from machine.
Drawing from her recent work exploring humans’ emotional responses to robots, Dr. Kate Darling answers questions like:
What happens when robots move from behind factory walls into shared spaces and begin interacting with humans?
What opportunities and challenges should we anticipate in the future of human-robot interaction?
Where does the true potential of AI and robotics lie, and will robots supplement human ability, or replace it?
Why do people treat robots like living things, and why does that matter?
What can and can’t robots and AI do? What societal challenges will we face in a future with robots (ethical, legal, and social)?
Dr. Darling examines why people fear some robots and empathize with others, while also prompting—and answering—questions about what society’s relationship with these robots could look like in the future.
What follows is in part an examination of the technology itself, but ultimately, offers a window into how it’s poised to change the way we relate to each other and our own humanity—and why it matters.
Talent Short Bio
Dr. Kate Darling is a leading expert in robot ethics and human-robot interaction, recognized for her groundbreaking research on the social, emotional, and legal impacts of robotics. As a research scientist at the MIT Media Lab, she studies how people emotionally engage with robots and how these relationships influence society, law, and policy.
Darling’s work pushes beyond technical innovation, focusing on the human side of robotics. She has advised policymakers, industry leaders, and global audiences on the challenges and opportunities created by emerging intelligent systems. Her research and talks explore questions such as: how should society treat robots, and how will their presence change our behavior, workplaces, and ethics?
With clarity and accessibility, Darling inspires audiences to think critically about the future of technology while also empowering organizations to make ethical and strategic decisions. She is a frequent media contributor and has been featured in outlets like The New Yorker, The Guardian, and PBS.
Her engaging presentations combine academic rigor with relatable stories, sparking thought-provoking discussions on the evolving relationship between humans and machines.
Read Full Bio
Dr. Kate Darling stands at the forefront of the rapidly evolving field of Robot Ethics, wielding her expertise as a research scientist at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) Media Lab. With a keen focus on human-robot interaction, she delves into the intricate dynamics of social robotics, unraveling the complexities of our emotional connection with life-like machines. As a thought leader, Kate endeavors to shape technology design and policy, probing the ethical considerations that underpin the burgeoning relationship between humans and robots.
Kate Darling’s journey as a trailblazer in Robot Ethics is underscored by her multidisciplinary background. Armed with a foundation in law, economics, and intellectual property, she brings a unique perspective to her research endeavors. Prior to her tenure at MIT, Kate delved into the intricacies of economic incentives within copyright and patent systems, laying the groundwork for her nuanced understanding of the intersection between technology and society.
Her passion for technology and robots has led her to interdisciplinary fields. After co-teaching a robot ethics course at Harvard Law School with Professor Lawrence Lessig, she began to work at the intersection of law and robotics, with a focus on legal and social issues.
Dr. Kate Darling work has been featured in Vogue, The New Yorker, The Guardian, BBC, NPR, PBS, The Boston Globe, Forbes, CBC, WIRED, Boston Magazine, The Atlantic, Slate, Die Zeit, The Japan Times, and more. She writes a monthly column for BBC’s Science Focus magazine and has been a contributing writer to Robohub and IEEE Spectrum. She currently speaks and holds workshops covering some of the more interesting developments in the world of robotics, and where we might find ourselves in the future.
Kate graduated from law school with honors and holds a doctorate of sciences from the Swiss Federal Institute of Technology (ETH Zurich) and an honorary doctorate of sciences from Middlebury College. In 2017, the American Bar Association honored her legal work with the Mark T. Banner award in Intellectual Property. Dr. Kate Darling is the caretaker for several domestic robots, including her Pleos Yochai, Peter, and Mr. Spaghetti. She tweets as @grok_ about eating cheerios for dinner.
In summary, Dr. Kate Darling emerges as a preeminent authority in Robot Ethics, leveraging her multidisciplinary background to navigate the ethical complexities of human-robot interaction. Through her groundbreaking research and engaging speaking engagements, she illuminates the societal implications of advancing robotics technology, inspiring critical dialogue and shaping policy direction.
View All Speakers and follow us on Twitter
Videos
Interest to Book? Send us your enquiry
No reviews available for this post.
Talent FAQ's
Do speakers charge a flat fee or by the hour?
Speaker fees can vary depending on factors such as expertise, demand, and event specifics. While some speakers may charge a flat fee for their services, others may have hourly rates. It’s best to discuss fee structures directly with the speaker or their representative to understand the pricing model.
What is the typical duration of a keynote speech and what is included?
Keynote speeches typically range from 30 to 90 minutes, with the duration determined by the speaker’s expertise, the event’s agenda, and audience preferences. Keynote speeches often include a combination of inspirational stories, practical insights, and actionable advice tailored to the event’s theme or objectives.
Does the scale of the event and audience size affect a speaker’s fee?
The scale of the event and audience size can indeed impact a speaker’s fee. Larger events with a broader reach or higher attendance may command higher fees due to increased exposure and demand. Conversely, smaller events or niche audiences may offer opportunities for more flexible pricing arrangements.
Travel expenses and other costs
Travel expenses such as transportation, accommodation, and meals are typically negotiated separately from the speaker’s fee. These costs vary depending on the speaker’s location, travel distance, and event duration. It’s important to clarify travel arrangements and expenses during the booking process to avoid misunderstandings.
Deposits and securing a booking
Many speakers require a deposit to secure a booking, with the remaining balance due closer to the event date. Deposits are often non-refundable and serve as a commitment from both parties. It’s advisable to discuss deposit requirements and payment terms with the speaker or their representative when finalizing the booking.
Additional tips and takeaways
- Virtual speaking appearances are a cost-effective alternative to high speaking fees, often 10-50% cheaper than in-person rates.
- There is typically no difference in fee for a 15-minute speech versus a 60-minute speech.
- Some motivational speakers are open to discounting their fee if hired for more than one event by the same organization.
- When browsing speakers, consider their location to keep travel costs down.
- Personal connections to your organization or event location can increase your chances of securing a renowned speaker.
- Be upfront about your needs and expectations to ensure a successful partnership.
- Speaker bureaus like Speakers Inc help guide you through the booking process to negotiate the best deal with favorable terms.
Ready to find the perfect speaker for your event? Use our advanced search feature or contact us to get started today!
You may be interested in...
- (20)
She’s founded multiple ventures, creating over 10,000 jobs and raising $200 million in capital. Her influence extends from boardrooms to NASDAQ spotlights, where she’s been honored globally for her impact with awards for her work, and recognized by major media outlets ranging from Fortune, Forbes, Entrepreneur, Newsweek, TIME, and CNBC, for her innovation. As the […]
- Travels from: San Francisco, CA
- Innovation Speakers
- (44)
- (5)
Jeremy Gutsche, MBA, CFA, is a renowned figure in the world of innovation and entrepreneurship, celebrated as a New York Times bestselling author and an award-winning innovation expert. With a reputation for delivering electrifying keynote presentations that inspire and ignite creativity, Jeremy has been dubbed by The Sun Newspaper as “one of the most sought-after […]
- Travels from: Toronto, ON
- Artificial Intelligence
- (17)
Shayla Rivera is a remarkable fusion of intellect, humor, and inspiration. Transitioning from a successful career as a NASA aerospace engineer to becoming an international keynote speaker, comedian, and educator, she exemplifies the power of adaptability and passion. Her journey from the technical corridors of NASA to the dynamic stages of motivational speaking and comedy […]
- Travels from: Austin, TX
- STEM Speakers
- (27)
Michael Tchong unique approach to decoding the future has positioned him as a preeminent trend-spotter and an influential figure in the realms of technology and entrepreneurship. With a distinct passion for staying ahead of emerging waves, Michael has established four successful startups, each leaving an indelible mark on their respective industries. His unwavering advocacy for […]
- Travels from: Las Vegas, NV
- Artificial Intelligence
- (53)
Dr. Andrew Ng is a luminary in the field of artificial intelligence (AI), renowned for his groundbreaking work and visionary leadership. As the founder of DeepLearning.AI, he has spearheaded numerous initiatives to democratize AI education and make advanced AI techniques accessible to a global audience. His role as the Founder and CEO of Landing AI […]
- Travels from: Palo Alto, CA
- Artificial Intelligence
- (14)
- (3)
Dominic Thurbon has cracked the code for making change happen, with the ultimate formula to drive innovation, future-proof your workforce and design brands that really matter. Dom is an internationally engaged speaker and facilitator who helps individuals and organisations drive behaviour change in the face of external disruption. He is a Partner in the Climate […]
- Travels from: Sydney, NSW
- Artificial Intelligence
- (9)
Marc Porat is a seasoned executive with over 30 years of experience driving innovation in the tech industry. He is best known for developing the concept of “The Information Economy” and cofounding General Magic, the iconic Apple spin-off that pioneered the first smartphones and intelligent agents. In his presentations, Marc shares his AI strategic vision […]
- Travels from: San Francisco, CA
- Futurists Speakers
- (29)
Karen Hao is a globally recognized voice at the forefront of AI reporting, named one of TIME’s 100 most influential people in AI and heralded as “one of the foremost tech journalists covering AI” by Dr. Joy Buolamwini. A former Silicon Valley engineer turned investigative journalist, Karen is the author of the New York Times bestselling book Empire […]
- Travels from: Hong Kong
- Artificial Intelligence
Disclaimer
These remain the property of its owner and are not affiliated with or endorsed by Speakers Inc.
Fee Range Information
All talent fees exclude VAT, travel and accommodation where required.
